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At WGHS, positive virus test leads to the quarantine of 38 students and 6 teachers

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 18, 2020 -- If Thursday was a harbinger of things to come, then Watkins Glen school officials could be in for very long, very difficult and possibly very disappointing school year.

“This whole thing, everything, is weighing on everyone,” Superintendent Greg Kelahan said Friday, Sept. 18, the day after a Watkins Glen High School's student’s coronavirus infection led to the quarantine of 38 fellow students. Also quarantined were six teachers -- five regular staff members and one substitute instructor.

Thursday -- nine days after the opening of the 2020-21 school year -- was a day of rapid developments, as discovery of the student’s positive test set off a series of directives by Public Health. The student, Kelahan said, had “expressed concern” last Friday, Sept. 11, left school that day, and was tested over the weekend.

The school received word of the positive test result Thursday morning. In short order, the student, the family and friends in recent contact were quarantined, as were, later that day, the students and teachers in classes in which the student had been present.

The high number of students quarantined reflects the movement of teachers and students at the high school level. There is little of that movement in the lower grades, which accounts for a lower number of quarantines at Hanlon Elementary School in the Odessa-Montour school district, where a total of nine students were quarantined when one among them tested positive. One teacher was involved in that quarantine, which is set to end the week after next.

The quarantines at both districts are, as is standard, 14 days from the last point of contact with an infected individual.

The loss of six instruction staff at WGHS puts an additional strain on a system that is not deep in subs and, in any event, is already stressed by the many health and safety regulations adopted as officials try to keep the pandemic from spreading in the halls of Watkins Glen’s schools.

There is the worry, too, that one or more among those quarantined might test positive, though that has not yet happened, and might not. But that pressure, and the close and inherently nerve-wracking attention that all school staff have adopted as a matter of daily course, is taking its toll.

“It’s weighing on everyone,” Kelahan repeated, concerned that the instructional system as set up this year might -- should the future deal more such obstacles -- reach a point where educators have difficulty “satisfying our core mission.”

As for the point of contact that led to the student’s positive test, Public Health had not, as of early Friday afternoon, determined who, where or what it might have been.

“That was a fast progression,” Kelahan (pictured at right) said of Thursday’s events. He notified parents in an email late Thursday morning about the positive test, and then updated them with another message in the evening. In that one, he wrote:

“This afternoon, I notified you that a high school student in our district has tested positive for COVID-19. The student and the student’s family have all been quarantined by the Schuyler County Public Health Office.

“I was contacted by Schuyler County Public Health later this afternoon when they notified me that they made additional decisions related to this positive test. In consultation with the New York State Department of Health, our public health office has extended the quarantine numbers to include all this student’s classmates and teachers with whom this student shared a classroom last Friday (the last day the student attended school).

“It is important that we remember this is a public health crisis and decisions are made by health professionals. As a school, we take public health direction from the public health officials. The Schuyler County Public Health Office has notified -- and will continue to notify -- those students, student families, and staff members that must quarantine. As contact tracing continues, there may be need for additional quarantines -- you will be notified if this relates to you or your child.

“I have heard from parents and staff members who are, understandably, seeking further information and assurances. Please know that, when it comes to student health and safety, I will communicate as quickly and as thoroughly as I am able. However, I will not sacrifice accuracy for the sake of speed. I also must protect the privacy of all our community members and may not give information that might identify students, families, or staff members.

“If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, I will communicate as I have today. I will not communicate age, gender, grade level, address/neighborhood, or any other individual or family identifiers. While this may be frustrating, I ask that you always make personal protection decisions for yourself and your family that will keep you safe, regardless of who you may or may not encounter. I remain committed to student/staff health and safety in school just as I remain committed to protecting student/staff privacy.

“Please continue to contact me with any questions or concerns. I know you all join me in wishing a fast recovery for any of our students and community members who are impacted by this infection."

Students gather in front of Odessa-Montour High School Thursday prior to entering the building for the first day of school.

Odessa students return to class ... finally

ODESSA, Sept 10, 2020 -- More than 600 students in the Odessa-Montour School District returned to in-person education Thursday after a pandemic-induced absence of almost six months.

Students entered the B.C Cate Elementary School in Montour Falls and the Hanlon Elementary School and Odessa-Montour Junior/Senior High School in Odessa starting at about 7:30 a.m. -- some coming on foot, some transported by parents, and some on school buses.

Entry was through various doors. Those on foot and brought by parents were given temperature checks at the door; those on buses had their temperature checked upon boarding the vehicles.

"Finally," said Superintendent Chris Wood, "the kids have a day approaching normalcy." His hope: that more such days follow, and that a rhythm is soon established that leads to a successful school year.

About 120 of the school's 700-plus students have opted to attend classes remotely. More than 80% selected the in-person option, which has them attending classes five days a week. A similar schedule was adopted in Dundee, while Watkins Glen opted for a hybrid schedule that has half of its in-person students attending Mondays and Tuesdays, and the other half on Thursdays and Fridays.

Photo in text: O-M high school students enter the building Thursday morning.

Odessa-Montour administrator Veronica Lewis (in blue) directed students to various school entry points.

Left: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood talks to a parent arriving with a student. Wood was distributing numbered cards to those parents also planning to pick up their kids at the end of the day. Right: Hugs and thumbs-up signs were much in evidence.

Two of the many O-M students who rode to school on buses Thursday morning.

Watkins Glen school district staff member Ralph Diliberto checks a student's temperature.

At long last, Watkins Glen students return to class ... with masks, temperature checks

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 8, 2020 -- Watkins Glen students attended school in-person Tuesday for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic forced a cancellation of classes last March.

Half of the students opting for in-person instruction attended Tuesday; the other half are scheduled for Friday under a hybrid scheduling plan adopted by the School Board. In coming weeks, the first group will attend Mondays and Tuesdays, and the second group on Thursdays and Fridays.

Students on hand Tuesday entered the school near the high school office and through the Field House, each getting their temperature checked before being permitted to attend classes.

If any had failed to fall within the parameters of temperature or were deemed potential infection risks, they would have been sent to a separate room for further consideration.

Superintendent Greg Kelahan reported that there were no notable first-day problems. He also observed how quiet the halls were with the limited number of students on hand, and with each wearing a mask -- a must if a student wishes to attend in-person.

About 15 percent of the student body has opted for on-line, remote instruction, with several others choosing home schooling that is not part of the district education plan.

Odessa-Montour schools open Thursday, with more than 600 of its 700-plus students set to attend in-person five days a week.

Photos in text:

Top: Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan welcomes a young student to school.
Bottom: A school staff member escorts a young girl to class.

Left: An arriving student is directed toward the Field House doors, where temperatures were being checked. Right: Students Abby Gibson, left, and Carlie Baker.

SCCUDD to hold K-6 billboard contest

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Sept. 7, 2020 -- The Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking (SCCUDD) is holding a billboard contest for Schuyler County students from kindergarten through grade 6.

All students attending Odessa-Montour Central School, Watkins Glen Central School and Bradford Central School are eligible, including homeschool students residing in Schuyler County.

The contest is for substance abuse prevention messages with a “Seasonal” theme. The winning billboard will be displayed during the months of November and December 2020.

Billboards created must have a message that informs, persuades, or states facts about substance abuse. It can be about nicotine/tobacco/vaping, alcohol, and/or prescription drug abuse or illegal drug use and how it is harmful to youth. The message can be about one or all of these topics/substances.

Students are encouraged to look up facts and statistics and gain knowledge of why these substances are harmful to youth. Students are encouraged to be creative and think about a message that would reach youth. They are also encouraged to NOT use scare tactics.

Billboards need to be submitted between September 14 and September 18, 2020. Those Billboards that are accepted will be displayed on the SCCUDD Facebook page and be voted on by the public. Voting will start on September 21 and end September 27, 2020 at midnight. The Billboard with the most votes will be announced the following week.

“We are very much looking forward to the creativity of the youth of Schuyler County. The younger that we can get children excited about and involved with substance abuse prevention the better,” said SCCUDD Project Coordinator Ward Brower.

Information about contest rules or entry will be provided at each school’s main office, or people can contact SCCUDD directly at 607-535-8140.

SCCUDD is a group of dedicated community members, businesses, and agencies that work to prevent, reduce, and delay the onset of substance use among Schuyler County youth by collaborating with community partners, promoting prevention education and substance-free activities, and implementing environmental strategies. SCCUDD works to reduce youth use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs that can cause lifelong problems. SCCUDD’s vision, say its leaders, is a connected community where youth have education, resources and drug-free options to help them on their journey to become happy, healthy adults.

For more information, or to become involved with SCCUDD, visit SCCUDD online at www.schuylercounty.us/sccudd, or follow SCCUDD on Facebook and Twitter.

Wood on football move: It was joint decision

ODESSA, Sept. 1, 2020 -- Odessa-Montour School Superintendent Chris Wood said Tuesday that the move by the Watkins Glen School Board Monday night to cut football from the budget (see story below) was discussed beforehand by him and Watkins Superintendent Greg Kelahan, and that it was a "joint decision" by the two districts.

The two schools have been playing football and baseball jointly in recent years -- their teams being known as the Seneca Indians. Watkins Glen in other, separate sports is known as the Senecas, and O-M as the Indians.

In a prepared statement, Wood said:

"Due to the anticipated loss of state aid in excess of $2 million, we are faced with making difficult decisions in our district. After much discussion, Watkins Glen Superintendent Greg Kelahan and I came to the joint decision to discontinue the football program for the 2020-21 school year. We are awaiting additional information on fall sports before making any decisions on our other offerings.

"I realize that this is a disappointment for some of our students. O-M administrators and staff look forward to restoring some sense of normalcy for all Odessa-Montour students as they are able to return to school full-time and in person next week."

Wood's reference to full-time applies to O-M, where more than 600 of the 700-plus students have opted to attend school in-person five days a week. Watkins has a hybrid plan that sees each student attending two days and spending the other days remote learning. And the $2 million is the expected shortfall at O-M if the state continues to withhold 20% of state aid each month. The possible Watkins Glen shortfall, it was announced Monday night, is $2.9 million.

Wood added, outside the statement, that school officials know the importance of extracurricular activities to the development of students -- whether athletics, music, theater or some other outlet.

But "safety is our top priority," he said. "Our first priority is bringing the kids back to school safely."

Meanwhile, the Seneca Indians football coach, Trevor Holland, when asked if he had expected the decision made by the Watkins School Board Monday night, said: "I knew that a decision was going to have to be made, but was hoping it wasn't going to be last night."

And looking down the road? "I'm not sure what the future holds," he said.

Photo in text: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood. (File photo)

From left: Board member Jessica Saks, board president Gloria Brubaker and board member Kevin Rumsey at Monday's meeting.

Watkins Glen School Board trims $710,000 from the budget, axing positions and football

WATKINS GLEN, Sept. 1, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen School Board Monday night -- in an effort to answer the loss of what could amount to $2.9 million in state aid, reduced the expenditures in the 2020-21 budget by $710,000 -- eliminating, among other things, a season of football.

The cuts, which also included a clerical position, three teaching aide jobs (already vacant), and one administrator position, could be reinstated should the fortunes of the state and, thus, of the district, suddenly change. But in a climate where the state is already withholding 20% of state aid payments -- and could make the cuts permanent -- the board felt it was time to start acting now.

By doing so, Superintendent Greg Kelahan said, the board would "communicate to the community that it is taking action" in a situation fraught with uncertainty.

The only thing the board seemed certain of was the unlikelihood that football would be a possibility. In fact, said Athletic Director Rod Weeden, with the fall sports season delayed until Sept. 21 and football limited at that point to non-contact practices, a football season simply "won't happen. There's no way it's going to happen with the restraints" imposed thus far by the state.

Besides, he added, "There's no way to put a schedule together" at this late date, even if the state were to clear football soon -- unlikely given the questions swirling around sports considered less of a risk. (Not mentioned: the possibility that any number of districts might opt out of sports until January. That was the position taken by Section VIII in Nassau County.)

Weeden's assessment convinced the board, after board member Theresa Butler had objected to the idea of canceling the sport that has long been the fall's crowd favorite.

Considering that the board had already agreed to cut the clerical position, three teacher aide positions and an administrator job, Gloria Brubaker wondered how it could cut academic jobs "but not sports?"

After Weeden's explanation, board member Craig Bianco set the tone of the agreement to follow by saying: "It pains me to say ... but saving money from sports right now so we don't have to cut academics later is the way to go."

The clerical position cut, Kelahan told the board, would save $50,000, the three teacher aide positions $60,000, the administrator job $110,000, conferences, field trips and contractual partnerships $100,000, cuts in transportation and maintenance purchases $100,000, cuts in material and supply purchases $250,000, and football and cheerleading $40,000.

Kelahan presented the list of potential cuts -- there were many more possibilities rejected for now by the board, including a couple of elementary teaching jobs, a music position, half of several other jobs, and participation in the New Visions program -- as options to consider, not as something he was recommending. "I'm not advocating," he said. "Not at all. I've identified $2 million in reductions for your consideration."

Also a possibility -- but not yet acted upon -- was the use of savings funds and of funds from reserve accounts. The latter would have to be repaid in five years with interest.

After the meeting, Kelahan said he recognized the hot-button nature of cutting football, but said he believed "the state has made that decision" by failing to clear the sport like it had soccer and cross country. "We're just freeing up the money."

Could football be reinstated? Well, Kelahan said, "If the Governor decided tomorrow that it was a viable option, we'd look at it. There is not a board member who wouldn't support football."

Photos in text: From top: Superintendent Greg Kelahan, and board members Craig Bianco and Theresa Butler at Monday's meeting.

Return of high school sports is good news, but financial issues abound at local districts

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Aug. 24, 2020 -- Governor Andrew Cuomo's announcement Monday that certain high school sports -- soccer, tennis, swimming and cross country -- can resume on Sept. 21 was hailed by many as great news, but not without concern.

Odessa-Montour School Superintendent Chris Wood said he was cautiously optimistic, but still keeping an eye on various, often shifting state signals.

While acknowledging the physical and mental health benefits from athletics and the pride a school takes in its teams, Wood pointed out that without the full complement of state aid, and in light of stringent distancing requirements in Physical Education class and the Arts, the return makes little sense financially, physically or from a simple fairness standpoint.

"We have got to get guidance from NYSED (the State Education Department) on all of this," he said, adding that considering financial constraints, the constantly changing regulations emanating from the state -- from NYSED, the Department of Health and Governor Cuomo -- and the continuing uncertainty about whether Covid-19 will spring up after students start gathering in school, "I have to ask, Do we have sports (in the immediate future), or do we not have it? I'm not convinced we have it."

Consider, he said, the funding. The state has told districts it is releasing to them 80% of the promised state aid for the upcoming school year, but hasn't said whether or when the remaining 20% is coming. If it doesn't come for the entire fiscal year, that would mean a $2 million shortfall at Odessa-Montour.

"We can't get an answer on the 20%," he said, adding that if the delay drags on, "What am I supposed to do? Sit here hoping it will come in? When do we get the money? They've got to help us somewhere."

Overall, "It makes no sense," he said. "Kids in Phys Ed class have to stay 12 to 14 feet apart. But now they're saying it's okay to put a bunch of sweating athletes out on the field, often in close proximity. How safe is that?

"And I can't put a band in a band room" due to distancing guidelines, he added. Considering the congestion likely on an athletic field, "There's a huge discrepancy there. How is that fair?"

Down in Watkins Glen, the sports issue came up at a meeting of the School Board Monday evening. The board spent little time on the financial end of it, with Superintendent Greg Kelahan saying afterward that "we've budgeted for the programs."

The Board members discussed whether those students opting for remote learning would qualify to play athletics. Kelahan told them the state allows that to occur, but that the board could adopt its own, contrary, policy.

"We can't deprive sports from a kid," said Board member Kris Clarkson. "That would be awful." The Board agreed with Clarkson, but also specified that any student learning remotely would have to find his or her own way to and from sports practices. School-provided transportation would be far too expensive, the Board members agreed.

"This Board and community are very committed to athletics," said Kelahan after the meeting. As for the cost if the 20% of state aid is not forthcoming? "We'll just have to figure it out."

One annoying addition to the sports scene, he added, is a new dictum from the state that spectator attendance at sporting events will be limited to two people per athlete, with social distancing observed. "Every time we turn, there's something else coming at us," he said.

The matter of finances is, sports aside, an overall concern -- so much so that Kelahan suggested one immediate cost-cutting measure would be the elimination -- through layoff or furlough -- of personnel who, under the current, mandated pandemic rules, are perhaps not currently needed.

If the state does withhold 20% of state aid -- and Business Manager Amy Howell told the Board that it has already started doing so, beginning in June -- the district would face a shortfall in revenue of $1.8 million to $2 million across the full year.

The state, he said, announced Monday that districts can draw funds from certain reserve accounts they had previously been prevented from drawing down, but with repayment plus interest due within five years.

With that daunting option in front of them, and Kelahan's suggestion that the district "reconsider personnel and programs," the Board decided to meet next Monday, Aug. 31, to discuss the financial picture.

"We need an alternate revenue stream," Kelahan said.

Photos in text: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood (top) and Watkins Glen Superintendent Greg Kelahan. (File photos)

Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan motions at a power-point photo of a Watkins classroom with desks spaced to meet social distancing requirements.

Watkins, O-M districts conduct sessions, explain school reopening plans to parents

Proposed 3/2, 2/3 plan at WG is 'off the table at this point'

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Aug. 19, 2020 -- Meetings to explain to parents the hows and whys of reopening plans were conducted Tuesday night by the Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen school districts -- O-M’s second of three online sessions, and Watkins Glen’s first of three combination online and in-person sessions.

The Watkins event was held in the high school auditorium, with the intent to limit the number of parents on hand to keep the turnout within state rules on attendance at public gatherings. As it turned out, just eight parents showed up. Other parents tuned in online through a link on the district’s website. Superintendent Greg Kelahan said he would be checking Wednesday to see how many people viewed the presentation online.

The district fielded hundreds of written questions, many submitted just before the meeting and therefore not yet studied, said Kelahan, the meeting emcee. He was peppered with questions from the in-person audience, though, throughout the 90-minute session. He said the second presentation Wednesday would be altered so that questions are withheld until after he completes his report.

That report utilized a power-point presentation of the reopening plan, from health protocols to attendance procedures to laptop and ipod equipment to masks to recess to nutrition to temperature-taking (daily at three access points at the school). He said the power point would be accessible, along with the written questions (and answers), on the school website.

Not discussed: A seemingly growing sentiment the previous night, at a School Board meeting, toward a possible scheduling 3/2, 2/3 structure whereby each of two school groups (Blue and Maroon) would attend in-person a total of five times across a two-week period, the first group going three times one week and two the next, and the other group going two times and then three.

That would, if adopted, replace a 2+2 plan approved by the board last week, which has the Blue group attending school in-person on Mondays and Tuesdays and the Maroon group attending on Thursdays and Fridays, with Wednesday as a remote education day for everyone. (That 2+2 plan in turn had replaced an earlier hybrid attendance model that envisioned elementary students on campus each day, with secondary school students alternating.)

Kelahan had said after that Monday board meeting that teachers would be consulted to determine if they approved of the change.

Tuesday night, though, Kelahan mentioned the Blue and Maroon groups but a couple of times, each time saying they would be attending under the 2+2 plan -- so that each group is in school in-person twice a week, and at home three days a week. (In any such plan -- 2+2 or 3/2, 2/3 -- no more than half of the students would be in school in person at any one time.)

Efforts to reach Kelahan after the meeting by phone and by text were unsuccessful Tuesday night, so the plan's number of in-person days -- the status of the 3/2, 2/3 proposal, if it still existed -- was not clarified. However, in a text message Wednesday morning, he said: "The hybrid plan remains as adopted by the Board of Education last Wednesday" -- which means the 2+2 plan.

In a subsequent phone call, he said his administration team had taken the issue to teacher representatatives Tuesday, with the decision being made to stay with the 2+2 plan, leaving teachers the opportunity on Wednesdays to concentrate on students with special challenges and to interact with parents, as well as conducting remote learning (on an abridged schedule) for all of the students.

"So the 3/2, 2/3 plan has been removed from the table at this point," he said, adding that the entire reopening approach "is fluid, with adjustments undoubtedly ahead, whether coming from the Governor, the Health Department or the State Education Department."

The second Watkins parents’ meeting was set for Wednesday night, with the final one Thursday at 6 p.m.

O-M Superintendent Chris Wood, meanwhile, conducted his second parent meeting in two nights (the final one is Thursday at 6 p.m.), answering pre-submitted questions with no live audience present. He said he has received 67 such submissions from parents, students and other community members -- some with single questions and some with multiple questions -- in sum covering a wide range of topics.

With about three-dozen parents still to be heard from, he said, a total of 603 students are planning to attend O-M in person full time, five days a week, while 120 have chosen remote learning. Seven are opting for independent home schooling. Those 603 in-person students constitute 83% of the respondents.

While pursuing responses from those final three dozen parents, Wood said, “the numbers are solid enough so now we can proceed” with specifics on transportation and the myriad other aspects of running a district in a pandemic. Parents who have chosen remote education for their kids will be provided “a tutorial,” he said, on how that method of education will best proceed.

One thing both superintendents made clear was the fact that nothing about this pandemic-driven planning is stable.

“We’re in a constant state of rethinking our plans, for sure,” Kelahan told his Tuesday audience, adding that eventually “we’ll get all the kids back -- we just can’t do it yet.”

Photos in text: Superintendents Greg Kelahan (top) and Chris Wood (File photos)

Rotary Club awards scholarships, grants

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 13, 2020 -- Three Schuyler County graduating high school seniors and 11 community organizations benefitted from 2019-20 fundraising efforts by the Watkins-Montour Rotary Club.

Odessa-Montour Central School graduate Derrick Lewis and Watkins Glen High School graduates Scott Brubaker and Adrienna Solomon were each awarded a $1,000 scholarship.

Nine organizations received donations for specific projects through the Rotary Club’s annual community grants program. The organizations were Catholic Charities, the Dutton Peterson Library, Habitat for Humanity, the Hometown Heroes Banner Program, the Humane Society, Labor of Love, the Montour Falls Public Library, the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Department and the Watkins Glen Public Library.

Additionally, Head Start of Schuyler County and My Place, A Play and Learning Center received donations designated by the Rotary Club to purchase books.

Glen School Board leans toward 3/2, 2/3 reopening plan; parents' meetings set

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 17, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen School Board, in a marathon session Monday night, made clear its preference to change its plan so that students attend 3 days one week and 2 the next -- a 3/2, 2/3 schedule to replace a 2+2 plan adopted last week.

Superintendent Greg Kelahan said after the 3 1/2-hour online session that the board's preference would be relayed to teachers -- probably the next day -- with a decision imminent, possibly in time for the first of three meetings explaining the plan to parents. Those are set for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday -- emanating from the high school auditorium, where a maximum of 50 people will be permitted, including the administration team and some board members.

That will leave about 35 in-person spots in the auditorium seating, with everyone else who wants to watch doing so online. Kelahan said those 35 slots would likely be reserved for parents with no internet access or with other special circumstances.

The School Board session Monday started with a 45-minute executive session that ran until 6:15 p.m. -- and was followed by an open meeting that didn't end until 9:45 p.m. It featured a lengthy explanation by Kelahan, and extensive accompanying board discussion, about the reopening.

The public-be-heard portion of the meeting saw one resident, Dr. Ben Saks, tell the board that he favored full-time attendance for elementary students -- which was part of a hybrid plan the board favored before voting for the plan last week that placed all grades into two groups, one to attend Mondays and Tuesdays and the other to attend Thursdays and Fridays, with Wednesday reserved for disenfecting the school. What, Dr. Saks asked, is different in other similarly sized districts choosing to offer students in-person, full-time schooling?

It became clear at Monday's session that disinfecting takes place every day, and that reserving Wednesday for that reason held little sway. Board members, led by Dr. Saks' sister, board member Jessica Saks, discussed at length the merits of the 3/2, 2/3 schedule, which among other things offers in-person students an extra day -- greater social interaction -- with classmates every other week compared to the 2+2 plan.

As for the number of students who might decide on the in-person route, no numbers are yet available. E-mails and, where needed, letters, were to be sent out this week asking parents whether they wanted their children in school or learning remotely, with a response deadline of Friday. At the board's urging, however, the deadline was changed to Monday, Aug. 24, the date of the next scheduled board session. (Odessa-Montour has received responses from parents of 685 of its 770 students, wth 82% planning to attend school full-time, in-person, five days a week.)

Also discussed, at great length, was the use of masks and social distancing -- with the board deciding that masks need not be worn when students are seated in class, situated six feet from their nearest classmates. And that distance was determined to be six feet from the edge of the work place -- or desk -- to the edge of the work space. "So it's really more like seven feet," said Kelahan.

Also discussed: where, exactly, students would have their temperatures checked each day. The plan was to check the temperatures at entry points at the Field House, the high school and the elementary school. That still seems to be holding, after discussion about bus drivers or, possibly, added monitors taking temperatures before or as a student entered the bus in the morning.

If it were to be the driver, he or she would have to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), which would hamper the ability to drive. And if it were a monitor, that person would likely be an existing employee whose job, said Kelahan "would be repurposed." But as he also pointed out, "it would increase our cost, and we are so strapped right now." Besides, he added, "I don't want buses idling on the road while temperatures are being taken," thus holding up traffic.

"Nothing here is ideal or even desirable," Kelhan told the board more than once, stressing along the way that whatever plan is finalized, it can be altered as the school year progresses -- although students opting for remote learning must stay with it until the first semester is completed. Anyone attending school in-person can, however, opt for a change to remote learning at any time.

Among other matters raised was this: If a teacher gives a test to students in a Monday class that is identical to a test given to the other half of his or her students on Thursday, what is to prevent the Thursday test from being contaminated by information circulating from the Monday test? "Good question," answered Kelahan. "We'll figure it out."

Photos in text:

Top: One of the Watkins Glen classrooms with desks arranged with social distancing -- one of several such photos featured at Monday's meeting.
Middle: Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan (File photo).
Bottom: A powerpoint page -- one of many -- shown at Monday's meeting to accompany Superintendent Kelahan's report on reopening plans.

At O-M, high percentage plans to attend

ODESSA, Aug. 17, 2020 -- Odessa-Montour School Superintendent Chris Wood, in the first of three online presentations to the public on his district's planned reopening, said Monday night that 82% of responding parents will send their children to school for in-person, full-time instruction.

Wood, who in his report outlined the district's plan and answered questions submitted by parents to the district office, will present his report again Tuesday, Aug. 18 and Thursday, Aug. 20 at 6 p.m.

The survey respondents, as of Monday, showed 564 of the district's 770 students planning to attend in-person, with 85 yet to be heard from. A total of 115 students plan to learn remotely, with five opting for independent home schooling. Those numbers are equal to 82%, 17% and 1% of the 685 respondents. Wood said he would have updated totals later in the week.

Photo in text: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood (File photo)

Watkins Glen School Board unanimously approves a hybrid 'A/B' reopening plan

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 12, 2020 --The Watkins Glen School Board voted unanimously Wednesday night to adotpt a hybrid attendance plan for the coming school year in which all students will attend school on an alternating schedule: what is being called an A/B plan.

The board, which had originally leaned in favor of a plan that would have seen pre-K through 8th graders in school full time and 9th through 12th graders alternating, opted instead for a plan which Superintendent Greg Kelahan said means "we will never have more than 50% of the kids in school at one time."

According to the plan, Group A will attend on Mondays and Tuesdays while Group B learns remotely. Everyone will learn remotely on Wednesday, which will be reserved for maintenance staff to disinfect the school. Then Group B will attend on Thursdays and Fridays while Group A stays home, learning remotely.

Kelahan said the plan was adopted because "the most important thing is the health and wellness of our students and teachers."

The original plan, Board member Craig Bianco said during Wednesday's session, had classes in the younger grades packed to the point where "if a kid moved two inches, there would be a violation of social distancing rules. That's not the best way for a student to learn. It would be a prison-like setting instead of a learning setting."

Parents concerned about sending their children to school during the pandemic will have the option of keeping them home for remote learning -- an option that Kelahan said should keep home schooling -- education apart from the district's instruction -- at a minimum. Any commitment to Watkins Glen School District remote learning, the board said, has to last through the first semester. After that, a student can join the A/B schedule if desired.

Three remote sessions are being planned for next week which will serve as briefings for parents, while the plan will also be explained to teachers in another session. Board President Gloria Brubaker said she checked with Governor Andrew Cuomo's office and was told the meetings are not for debate from parents, but simply to inform them. Any questions they have must be submitted beforehand to the district office.

Brubaker prepared a statement, which reads as follows:

"I would like to start by saying we are in the middle of a pandemic. This is new territory for all of us. We have been handed down mandated guidelines from the New York State Education Department that must be followed. We as a board are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

"I also want everyone to know that we all want our students back in school. This includes the administration, the faculty, parents, students and the Board of Education, but we must do it in a responsible way. A way that keeps the health and safety of our entire school community first and foremost.

"As you have just heard, the board has decided that we will go with a blended hybrid model (A/B schedule) and a 100% virtual option that parents will have the option to choose from.

"For the hybrid model, the students will be placed in cohorts and the A cohort will be physically in school Monday and Tuesday while the B cohort will be at home and participate in live streaming.

"On Wednedsays, all students will be at home and live streamed. (This day may end a little differently so teachers could possibly have office hours for parents or students, upon request, or grade level/subject meetings to work through any kinks and to share what might be working well for some.)

"Thursdays and Fridays the B cohort will be physically in school while the A cohort will be home and participate in the live stream.

"Special Ed students who are in a self-contained classroom will go to school on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

"With the A and B Cohort plan and parents still having the option to keep their children at home for virtual learning, and with some parents choosing to drop their children at school so they are not on the bus, this should take care of the proper social distancing, with masks, on our buses and in our classrooms.

"At the next board meeting (Monday, Aug. 17), Mr. Kelahan will go into detail about exactly how this plan will work. There will also be three separate parent meetings and one teacher meeting to answer any questions regarding our school reopening plan."

Photo: Superintendent Greg Kelahan and Board President Gloria Brubaker (File photo)

O-M proceeding with its in-school plan

ODESSA, Aug. 12, 2020 -- The Odessa-Montour School District is proceeding with its plan whereby students who wish to attend school will do so -- while parents who prefer remote learning for their kids can opt for that.

Superintedent Chris Wood said Wednesday night that O-M is "going with the in-person," while surveying parents for their preference. Thus far responses covering 430 students have been received, leaving 330 yet to be tabulated. He said he plans to contact those families for their responses.

After a final number of in-school students is determined, he said, then transportation and cafeteria plans can be finalized. If a significant number -- say 300 -- opted for remote learning, he said, then the plan might change. Those who do opt for remote learning must commit through the first semester so as not to disrupt carefully crafted in-school plans.

Informational sessions will be provided online next week for parents on three different evenings. Any questions posed beforehand to the district will be answered at that time.

Wood said all of the plans are made with staff input, and that he meets regularly with Health Department officials to make sure shifting state rules and regulations are being followed.

He said 95% of his staff "wants to be back badly, and 5% want to be back, but are cautious." No teachers have expressed a desire to stay out of the classroom, he added.

"I believe we can do this safely," he said, "as long as the kids do as we ask" regarding masks and social distancing. "The biggest thing is that we can get them back safely."

Photo in text: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood. (File photo)

Hospital Auxiliary awards scholarships

MONTOUR FALLS, Aug. 11, 2020 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has awarded $1,000 scholarships to two high school graduates who are planning to enter the healthcare field.

Samantha Dudgeon, daughter of Ted and Caminda Dudgeon of Cayuta, graduated in June from Odessa-Montour Central School. She plans to attend Finger Lakes Community College to study nursing.

Collin Gaylord, son of Jill Gaylord of Beaver Dams, graduated from Watkins Glen Central School in June. He will attend the University at Buffalo to start his education toward becoming a doctor. Collin is also employed in the Schuyler Hospital Dietary Department.

Scholarship awards are presented each year to graduating high school seniors who live or attend school in Schuyler County and plan to enter careers in the healthcare field.

Awards are based on academic achievement, volunteerism, and personal essays. Previous recipients have been in such diverse fields as orthopedics, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, speech therapy, and pharmacy.

The Auxiliary awarded its first scholarship of $250 in1990. Over the next 20 years it grew to $1,000 scholarships. Funds for the awards are raised through the Auxiliary’s hospital gift shop and other fundraising events.

For more information about the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, call (607) 535-7121 or email info@schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: From left, Collin Gaylord; Auxiliary President Sharon Malick; Samantha Dudgeon. (Photo provided)

School Board, residents weigh in as they wait for Cuomo's decision on school year

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 4, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen School Board spent most of its 90-minute Zoom meeting Monday night discussing the possibilities for the upcoming school year, and heard from a half-dozen residents with a range of opinions -- some favoring in-school instruction, and one wishing to keep his daughters home rather than put them at risk in a pandemic.

The bottom line stressed by Superintendent Greg Kelahan and the board was that no plans and no decisions can be made until Governor Andrew Cuomo announces in the coming days what kind of education he will permit -- in-school, a hybrid of in-school and remote learning, or just remote learning.

The meeting followed by three days submission by the district to the state of a voluminous report listing possible educational plans, broken down into the three categories. Much of it was in bureaucratic language, and Kelahan told the board the district residents would be notified soon -- there is a target date of Aug. 15 -- with “a common language” explanation of what is being planned. That’s assuming the Governor has made his determination by then.

Kelahan opened the meeting by explaining that a large part of his job is risk analysis -- whether in determining the safety of bus transportation on a snowy or icy day, or in the purchase of playground equipment, or by letting kids use the school pool. “I have to think about these things all the time,” he said.

Now, he said, the decisions going forward regarding education in a pandemic age will be in the hands of the board. “You are all now superintendents,” he said. “You get to sit in my chair.”

He then pointed to a synopsis that he submitted to the board last week, with four new items added:

--We followed directions. That was what the detailed report to the state, in stilted language, was all about.

--No one knows, yet, what school can look like in September. This is because the Governor has to weigh in with his decision.

--I do not have the authority to let children learn remotely or to let employees work remotely. Again, the Governor has the authority.

--We had a great deal of participation by committees in preparing the state report. But not everyone is satisfied. This was in apparent response to criticism from members of the community in the days since the report was unveiled.

“There can be no decision yet” on what options the board might consider, Kelahan said. “Once, or if, the Governor says” home instruction is an option, “this will be a different conversation."

Reacting to comments from district residents in the wake of the report to the state, he said he found it frustrating “when I hear ‘You already decided to reopen.’ No. Who gets to decide? The Governor.” The district, he reiterated, “has plans for all three” contingencies: in-school, hybrid and remote learning.

Among board members, Jessica Saks said that while she was being “bombarded” with comments and questions, “all is for naught until the Governor makes his decision.” Added Kris Clarkson: “The Governor will decide a lot of things for us.” To which Kelahan echoed: “There’s no sense going further until we know what’s going to happen” -- until the Governor issues his directives.

When that decision comes, that will result in a direction, but not universal acceptance. “There’s no way possible,” Clarkson said, “that everyone’s going to be happy.”

And after further discussion, board member Craig Bianco suggested: “We’re beating a dead horse until we hear from the Governor.”

There was subsequent discussion about the use of remote learning in the future now that “life has changed,” as board member Theresa Butler put it. With what has been learned from the recent style of education, she said, the district can help absent students “digitally” instead of sending paper homework to them to complete in isolation.

Added Kelahan, with a smile: With digital learning now part of the landscape, “There will be no need to have snow days.” Schooling can just continue remotely instead. “Of course,” he said, he’d have to deal with the teachers’ union and attend to other potential obstacles before that vision might come to fruition. “I’d have to do this first, this second, this third ...”

And then he polled the board, asking if -- should remote learning be the path ultimately selected -- “all employees would work from school?” The answer was “yes.”

A half dozen district residents then took turns addressing the board. One, Dr. Shannon Schamel, a member of a parent advisory committee, said that a “consensus point” of the committee was that it “favored prioritizing in-person, full-time learning.” That, she said, would free parents to “keep working.” And in prioritizing, she said, the committee favored that “the youngest go every day” to school, in-person.

In fact, the preference among the speakers ranged from an insistence that in-school education was paramount to social development -- “critical,” said one of them, Jamie Coleman -- to the hope that parents will retain the option of whether to send their children to school or not. Said one, Erich Asperschlager, who has daughters in the first and sixth grades, “There are parents who don’t feel comfortable ... I don’t feel safe sending my children to school. I’m scared. Online learning is not great, but neither is getting sick.”

With a remote option in place, he said, fewer kids would be riding the buses, making social distancing easier there and in the classroom. “Giving parents the freedom to make health choices is important,” he said, expressing the hope that if the School Board is given the authority to make such a determination, “please give parents the option to have remote learning. I just want to keep my kids safe.”

Other speakers raised questions as to social distancing, air flow within classrooms, protocols in the face of infections or “extensive absenteeism,” disinfection protocols, and student training to help minimize the risks of infection.

In addition to the speakers, Board President Gloria Brubaker read a letter from one student who said there is a “need to get back to school” -- that remote learning, in essence, breeds isolation and depression.

The next meeting is set for 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24 -- once again a virtual Zoom meeting.

Photos in text: From top: Superintendent Greg Kelahan, and board members Theresa Butler and Kris Clarkson during the meeting.

Options and uncertainty front and center as school districts offer reopening plans

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 31, 2020 -- The Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen Central School Districts have prepared plans for New York State regarding the various options being considered for educaton in the coming school year.

The plans, for in-school instruction, a hybrid of in-school and online education, and strictly online teaching and learning, were mandated by the state by the end of July. The Watkins Glen administration presented its proposals to the School Board Wednesday night, while the O-M admnistrators unveiled theirs Thursday night.

Both districts want in-school instruction, and each has proposals that address that desire in different ways. But the Superinendents of the two districts -- Chris Wood at O-M and Greg Kelahan at Watkins Glen -- caution that everything is still pretty much up in the air, contingent on:

-- an upcoming decision by Governor Andrew Cuomo as to what styles of education will be permitted in the face of the pandemic;
-- any potential uptick in the amount of infections in the school and community, and
-- any change in the amount of state aid granted to the schools. That last is largely contingent on action at the federal level, where Congress is still wrestling with how much money to provide the states for essential services such as education.

How each school will proceed varies, shaped largely by committee input and surveys. (And each offers the cautionary note that everything is subject to change.) Watkins Glen's Kelahan said he "removed myself" from the planning, leaving much of it to a 26-member "decision-making" group, with input from teacher, student and parent advisory groups, along with a survey of 333 parents. O-M relied too on surveys, of faculty and community, the latter from 400 families..

The Watkins Glen district posted its detailed, multi-page plan on its website late Friday, while O-M posted a plan on its website as well as sending a comminique to parents and media after meeting with local Health Department officials Friday morning. As they currently stand, the plans include the following:

Odessa-Montour: The hope is to have all students on campus all day, five days a week -- with the exception of immunity compromised students, for whom safeguards have to be established. The Health Department officials, with minor suggestions, approved the O-M plans during their Friday visit to the high school and two elementary schools, at each of which maintenance staff has set up classrooms with social distancing, as well as various sanitizing stations.

In the event -- whether by changing pandemic circumstance or gubernatorial fiat -- that full-time, full occupancy plan becomes untenable, the administration has focused on a hybrid plan whereby the lower grades, up through Grade 6, would attend every day. Students in Grades 7-12 would attend on a 3-day-on, 2-day off pattern. This would work alphabetically by last name, with, say, names starting in A-L in school on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday one week, and at home Thursday and Friday. The M-Z group would be at home those first three days, then in school the last two. The next week, they would flip, so that each student was in school every 5 of 10 days.

In either event, full school or hybrid, the older kids would start school earlier than in the past, perhaps at 7:30 a.m., with the younger kids starting later. The bus runs would be doubled, reducing the number of students on each bus in keeping with social distancing. Masks would also be required on the buses, as they would in the hallways on the way to class. Mask use in class was yet to be determined.

Also under consideration is whether any students would be using lockers, and how best to handle "specialty" classes such as art, music and physical education. In peril: interscholastic athletics, which Wood doubted would start in the fall (the current start date is Sept. 21), being pushed instead to three reduced seasons running from January to June. Concerts and assemblies are on hold, he added, as are semiformals and the prom, while field trips are unlikely.

When asked by a board member what might prevent any chosen plan from moving forward, the superintendent said an outbreak of Covid or a 20 percent reduction in state aid -- equivalent to roughly $2 million -- would send planners back to the drawing board.

The full O-M plan, 40 pages long, is available to download on the school district's website (click here). It contains feedback from surveys and advisory groups, instructional information for families, Return to School Protocols, and Campus Health & Safety Protocols.

Watkins Glen: Superintendent Kelahan, the morning after his board’s meeting, said districts had been told by Governor Cuomo that they should “structure to reopen” with in-school instruction if at all possible, and that that’s what the district is aiming for. What form that takes -- whether full attendance all day, every day, or a hybrid of in-school and remote learning -- remains to be determined. "I can't speak for the board on that," said Kelahan, "and I heard many different opinions from many staff, parents and students. I know that I don't have a preference. Much depends on what the Governor says."

Any in-school return raises many safety and logistical concerns, from transportation to food service to proper distancing to mask wearing to social distancing to how to respond in the event of a student or teacher showing a high temperature or falling ill. All of those variables and others are addressed in the published plan (Click here), which covers Health and Safety, Facilities, Child Nutrition, Transportation, Social Emotional Well-Being, School Schedules, Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism, Technology and Connectivity, Teaching and Learning, and Staffing. And each of those subjects is addressed in three different sections, whereby Everyone Returns (Plan A), Hybrid (Plan B), and All Virtual If Stay at Home Orders Go Into Effect (Plan C).

The board, after what Kelahan said was extensive discussion, decided at its meeting Wednesday not to increase the bus runs, one of many vexing considerations it will be facing as the school year nears and then unfolds. For instance, also closely studied was the right time at which to check each student's temperature daily: as he or she entered the school each morning, or earlier, at the bus stop. The decision: check temperatures at the school door.

A reading of the 70-page plan makes clear the complexity of the task ahead for the school district. The pandemic presents challenges that can change a school’s plans and approach at a moment’s notice, Kelahan said.

One positive note in a dark time, he noted, is that the state has given districts the flexibility to alter their plan in the case of a Covid outbreak. “If I feel our building is at the point where we can’t safely proceed” with in-school instruction, Kelahan said, “we might move to a hybrid or online plan” in concert with local health officials.

The Health Department will conduct an on-site review of the district's current plan and preparations "once the Governor announces what is allowed," Kelahan said, adding in a letter on July 29 to parents: "Until the Governor announces how districts may open, we are not able to share which structure our district will use in September."

Of the hybrid plans suggested, the preferred one would see Pre-K through 8th grade in school each day, with grades 9-12 alternating days on-site and remotely. That option foresees no stricture on the number of students permitted in the school. Another option would be necessitated if the governor directed an attendance limiter of, say, 50%.

No plan, Kelahan said, is “set in stone. These are living, breathing documents. The School Board can alter them, observing and adjusting."

Photo in text: The rear of the Odessa-Montour High School, where fencing along the driveway has been removed. This driveway can be used for dropoffs and pickups by visitors who will thus not have to enter the building. With the fencing gone, there is room for both entering and exiting vehicles.

School boards weigh mascots' status as traditions give way to cultural changes

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 13, 2020 -- With the cultural landscape in America in the midst of change, local schools are not immune -- not where their sports teams, mascots and logos are concerned. The future of those mascots is being discussed.

"The conversation has been renewed and is starting to build momentum," says Rod Weeden, athletic director in the Watkins Glen School District.

"The question has been on our minds, given recent national news," said Odessa-Montour School Superintendent Chris Wood, "and the Board of Education and I have had initial discussions regarding our mascot."

The O-M sports teams are the Indians; the Watkins Glen sports teams are the Senecas. In those sports in which they've combined -- football and baseball chief among them -- they are the Seneca Indians.

There are more such team nicknames, or mascots, in the Interscholastic Athletic Conference, which is -- like O-M and Watkins Glen -- turning its attention to the issue.

The statements by the two school officials came in response to emails seeking information on the fallout from national movements against traditional symbols and in the wake of the decision by the Washington football team to drop "Redskins" from its name and to exorcise its accompanying logo.

At O-M, though, the matter is not the top priority. "At this time," said Superintendent Wood, "we are focusing our time and efforts on developing a plan to safely bring students back to school in the fall." (The district must submit a reopening plan by the end of the month, after which Governor Andrew Cuomo will be announcing which regions in the state pass muster for fall in-person classes.)

"Once students return," said Wood, "our primary focus will be on meeting social-emotional needs and narrowing the academic gaps while addressing budget concerns.

"In short, yes we are aware of the concern with our mascot," said Wood, "but, like everything else we do, our students need to be a part of the decision-making process. Stay tuned."

At Watkins Glen, Weeden expanded.

"This is certainly not a new controversy for schools. With the current state of the nation, this topic is being brought to the forefront again. People are asking some hard questions and ... I think the conversation certainly has to happen.

"The school board has asked some questions and is looking for information. I'm sure they have been approached by members of the community, as well. We can not bury our heads in the sand and hope this goes away. We need to ask ourselves many basic questions about what we want our brand to be.

"What do we want to be known for? Is our mascot and the imagining associated with it perpetuating a negative impact toward a race? If we do nothing and are told by the state that all schools must drop any association of a school mascot with a race of people, are we financially prepared to make those changes? I believe the school board has a duty to ask many of these questions and more and make an educated decision.

"I believe we all have a duty to educate ourselves on this topic and not just dismiss it through hateful comments toward those who want to educate themselves. Discussing things like dignity and the perpetuation of negative stereotypes is not just reserved for those of a certain political party, I believe it is a basic part of humanity. ...

"The ideals of the country are changing. We can look at the many companies and artists who have recently gone through new branding work in order to keep in line with societal changes. Schools are no different. There are many schools in New York State with Indian mascot connections and certainly many more with other mascots related to a race of people. In the IAC there are currently 5 schools of the 19 member schools with mascots associated with Indians.

"This topic is being discussed at the league level this week. I'm sure each of these schools are in a different place about discussing this issue. The impact is far reaching and has many implications historically, financially, and emotionally. I'm confident we will all work through this and come up with a solution that the majority can live with."

Photos in text: From top: The Indian on the O-M gym wall; O-M Superintendent Chris Wood and Watkins Glen Athletic Director Rod Weeden.

Afternoon Club awards 3 scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 9, 2020 -- The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club has awarded its annual $150 scholarhsips this year to one graduated senior each from the Bradford, Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen high schools.

The Bradford honoree is Adrianna Padgett, who plans to study digital media arts in college.

Marisa Alton is the O-M honoree. She will attend Finger Lakes Community College to prepare for a career in Elementary Education.

The Watkins Glen honoree is Elaine Majors, who will attend SUNY Potsdam with a dual major in Anthropology and Archeological Studies. She plans to be an archeologist.

The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club meets once a month. Its members, says a press release announcing the scholarships, "are very interested in obtaining knowledge, and staying current with everyday society ... Because they value learning so much, each year they are proud to present scholarships to Schuyler County High School graduates who have worked hard and shown that they can succeed, and also plan on attending a college or trade school."

Area lawmakers, education leaders urge state: Release school reopening guidelines

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, July 8, 2020 -- U.S. Representative Tom Reed (R-NY), State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats), Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning), Assemblyman Chris Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats), Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes (R,C-Caledonia) and Assemblyman Joseph Giglio (R,C,I-Gowanda) Wednesday joined regional education leaders to call on New York State to give area schools the go-ahead to begin implementing plans to reopen in September.

Also on hand were GST BOCES Superintendent James Frame, Bath Schools Superintendent Joe Rumsey, Hornell Superintendent Jeremy Palotti, Canaseraga Superintendent Chad Groof and other school representatives.

The New York State of Board of Regents and the State Education Department announced in late April the formation of a School Reopening Task Force to oversee school reopenings. In June, the task force held a series of virtual meetings with four Regional School Reopening Task Forces representing teachers, parents, administrators, school board members and non-instructional school personnel, among others, to gather input on the protocols that will then guide New York’s 700 local school districts in devising their reopening plans.

School administrators across the area are relying on state officials to follow the plan it outlined and release its guidance as soon as possible.

Despite the significant time, effort and professional input that has gone into the Regional School Reopening Task Forces, over the past week New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has reiterated that he alone will have the final say. On Monday, he said that the state Department of Health (DOH) and his own, previously formed Reimagine Education Advisory Council, are also working to develop “forthcoming” guidance, but gave no definitive timetable.

During a news conference Wednesday at the GST BOCES Bush Campus in Horseheads, area leaders stressed that schools need to start planning now to be ready for reopening in September and called on the governor to quickly release the necessary guidelines.

In a joint statement, Reed, O’Mara, Palmesano, Friend, Byrnes and Giglio said, “Our local county leaders, health professionals, educators, teachers and communities have demonstrated enormous dedication, discipline and responsibility throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Our communities’ leaders have demonstrated they can be trusted with a careful and thorough reopening of schools that is focused on safety, first and foremost. No one cares more about the health and well-being of our students, families and school communities.

"What has been accomplished by administrators, teachers and parents to help students throughout this public health crisis has been remarkable. These efforts must continue to supplement ongoing instruction because in-person schooling is fundamentally important to the long-term health and well-being of our young people and their families. Nothing can replace our children being in school. It’s central to quality education, our ongoing economic recovery and the strength of our social fabric. Governor Cuomo needs to release the guidelines so that school administrators can get to work implementing a safe reopening for September. The governor can’t leave school districts, students, teachers and parents waiting until the final minute for guidance.”

The group highlighted the success of the regional COVID-19 response, praising the work of local officials and the ongoing cooperation of local citizens and communities to follow the safety guidelines recommended to stop the spread of the coronavirus and demonstrate the feasibility of safe reopening. The group also noted that the knowledge and experience gained over the past several months leaves them confident about developing and implementing safe school reopening plans for September -- if, they stressed, the state releases the necessary protocols and gives school districts ample time to thoroughly prepare their facilities and staff.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara speaks at the press conference held Wednesday at GST BOCES Bush Campus in Horseheads. (Photo provided)

Rutledge, Brubaker win Lions scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 2, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen-Montour Falls Lions Club has awarded Watkins Glen High School graduates Bethany Rutledge and Scott Brubaker $1,000 scholarships in recognition of their academic achievements, character, and community service.

The club's scholarship program is approved by the Lions Club Board of Directors and funded by the Watkins Glen-Montour Falls Foundation in remembrance of past High School Principals and Lions members John Cook and Bud Warner.

Scott Brubaker, winner of the Lions Club Outstanding Student Award, will be attending SUNY Oswego to study Broadcast and Mass Communication. Brubaker, son of Renee Riley and Brett Brubaker, has been an avid student of journalism and media and is pursuing a career in news reporting. The four-year Bachelor of Art degree qualifies graduates in media positions such as producer, news anchor, press secretary, reporter, editor, and media researcher.

Bethany Rutledge, winner of the Lions Club 2020 Cook-Warner Improved Student Award, has been accepted into the Canine Training and Management Program at SUNY Cobleskill. Rutledge, daughter of George and Pam Rutledge, has cultivated a commitment to animals and seeks to assist relationship building between animals and people. The four-year program will lead to a Bachelor of Techology degree that qualifies graduates in both private pet care businesses or government canine programs.

Photos in text: Bethany Rutledge and Scott Brubaker (Photos provided)

Odessa-Montour unveils Academic Awards

ODESSA, June 28, 2020 -- The Odessa-Montour School District has announced its Academic Award winners for the 2019-20 school year, as follows:

WELLS COLLEGE 21ST CENTURY LEADERSHIP AWARD: Reagan Bishop, Brock Sgrecci

MATH DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Algebra -- Shirley Sidle, Dan Spencer
Geometry -- Kathryn Adams
PreCalculus -- Madison Vogel
4 Year Math Award -- Derrick Lewis

TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Certificate of Excellence in Technology:
Gage Arcangeli, John Jelliff, Derrick Lewis

HISTORY DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Economics Highest Average -- Alicia Nelson
Government Highest Average -- Samantha Dudgeon
Joseph Lemak Global Studies Award -- Madison Vogel
Edward Banfi U.S. History Award -- Brett Walters

PHYSICAL EDUCATION BABE RUTH AWARDS: JoLynn Minnier, Derrick Lewis
Grade 11 Physical Education Awards -- Malia Mertens, Brock Sgrecci
Grade 10 Physical Education Awards -- Annaleise Beckley, Gabriel Grover
Grade 9 Physical Education Awards -- Victoria Brewster, Jon Spencer
Senior High Health Education Award -- Tassia Garrison

USMC Scholastic Excellence Award: Derrick Lewis

NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL TRIPLE C AWARD: Megan Adams, Jared Rumsey

ENGLISH AWARDS
English 9 Award -- Kathryn Adams
English 10 Award -- Aidan Thurston
English 11 Award -- Emma Malnoske, Madison Vogel
English 12 Award -- Dylan VonNeida, Cheianne Webster
ACE English Academic Award -- Brooke Sikora

SPANISH AWARDS
Spanish II Achievement Awards -- Victoria Brewster
Spanish III Achievement Awards -- Camille Sgrecci, Aidan Thurston
Spanish IV Achievement Award -- Madison Vogel
ACE Spanish Achievement Award -- Grace Vondracek
5-year Spanish Achievement Award -- Paden Grover, Preston Harris, Grace Vondracek

BAUSCH AND LOMB HONORARY SCIENCE AWARD: Jared Rumsey

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER FREDRICK DOUGLAS AND SUSAN B. ANTHONY AWARD: Emilee Chaffinch

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Earth Science -- Marissa Marsh
Living Environment -- Sarah Barr
Chemistry -- Madison Vogel
Physics -- Derrick Lewis
Four Year Science Awards -- Hannah Chapman, Sara Gardner, Ryan Griswold, Preston Harris, Noah Hollenbeck, Derrick Lewis, Kara Reese, Brooke Sikora, Grace Vondracek

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER GEORGE EASTMAN LEADERSHIP AWARD: Megan Adams

NYS OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Derrick Lewis

ELMIRA COLLEGE KEY AWARD: Madison Vogel, Ida Sidle

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY COMPUTING MEDAL: Emma Malnoske

CLARKSON UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT AND LEADERSHIP AWARD: Lillian Betts, Autumn Garrison

RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE WOMEN OF INFLUENCE AWARD: Taryn Hoyt, Malia Mertens

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER XEROX AWARD: Evan Underdown

RENSSELAER MEDAL: Megan Adams

KEUKA COLLEGE GEORGE H. BALL COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Taylor Cain, Mackenzie Dundas, Hannah Hoose, Devon Mahaney, Samantha Sipes

PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE (Must have 90 average and College Entrance Exam Scores at or above the 85th Percentile): Tassia Garrison, Brooke Sikora

FOUR-YEAR HONORS
(Seniors who have a 3-5/6 year average of 85 or above)
Marisa Alton
Shania Austin
Micah Brewster
Hannah Chapman
Samantha Dudgeon
Sara Gardner
Tassia Garrison
Ryan Griswold
Paden Grover
Preston Harris
Noah Hollenbeck
Derrick Lewis
Lydia Lynch
Ashley Monroe
Julia Paulisczak
Kara Reese
Brooke Sikora
Rhys Stermer
Faith Switzer
Caleb Thomas
Grace Vondraek
Brett Walters

Cars from the O-M school district traveled the WGI racetrack on Wednesday, June 24.

O-M seniors practice for graduation, circle the Watkins Glen International racetrack

SCHUYLER COUNTY, June 25, 2020 -- The graduating seniors in the Odessa-Montour High School Class of 2020 gathered Wednesday afternoon at the school athletic field for a practice run-through in preparation for their Friday graduation ceremony there, and then traveled caravan-style to the Watkins Glen International racetrack.

There, like their counterparts from Watkins Glen High School earlier this month, they were admitted to the track -- driving their cars, often with family members on board, four times around the famed circuit's long course.

They were led most of the way to WGI -- from the school grounds through the villages of Odessa and Montour Falls -- by siren-blaring fire trucks from the Odessa, Montour Falls, Watkins Glen and Burdett fire departments, and were greeted along the way by waving spectators, some bearing congratulatory signs.

It was all done under sunny skies and in moderate temperatures -- a beautiful day to help celebrate a class that has missed out on so much in this age of the pandemic.

Superintendent Chris Wood summed it up in the following statement.

"I wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who have gone above and beyond to help an outstanding group of seniors this year. First, thank you to our seniors. They are the most resilient group of students in our storied Odessa-Montour history. They have continued to roll with the changes, no matter how difficult the times or how inconvenient the changes were.

"Second, the parents and community. They too have had to overcome drastic changes while wanting the best for the students. They have been extremely patient and understanding. And finally, school staff have gone above and beyond to try and be active in the students' lives, and many have done a great job thinking outside the box.

"Tonight we had our graduation dress rehearsal. The parents were, as expected, upbeat and positive. The students were all smiles. It was a shining moment in a not so shining time. The energy was fantastic. None of this would’ve been possible without our amazing fire departments. They provided a once-in-a-lifetime moment for our seniors, escorting them through the villages of Odessa and Montour as the seniors went to Watkins Glen International. Many of these volunteers are proud alumni, residents of the school district or the county. These are the first to rush into a building when needed; and were out in full force to do what was best for 52 students. To all of those courageous men and women: thank you.

"Thank you also to Watkins Glen International. WGI has partnered with the school district for seven years in various capacities. It has typically gone above and beyond for our Jr./Sr. Prom. This year, we were not able to have Prom. WGI was quick to reach out and ask if it could help us honor our seniors. Tonight, it allowed 60 to 70 cars onto the famed race track to allow us to do four laps. It is a world-class organization that went out of its way to help Odessa-Montour.

"Thank you to everyone who banded together to honor our students. On behalf of the Odessa-Montour District and Odessa-Montour family, your generosity, kindness and perseverance is truly appreciated."

Christopher J. Wood
Superintendent of Schools
Odessa-Montour Central School

Photos in text: From top: A student's car, senior JoLynn Minnier at the graduation practice, and Lisa Frost celebrating the passing parade on Main Street in Montour Falls.

At the graduation run-through, from left: Preston Harris, a senior's cap, and Kara Reese.

Schuyler Scholar honorees announced

SCHUYER COUNTY, June 23, 2020 -- Sixteen seniors from three school districts who finished in the top 10% of their class academically are being honored as Schuyler Scholars.

The annual designation -- this year without a traditional dinner celebration due to the pandemic -- is marked by the presentation to each honoree of a plaque.

The honorees, by school, include:

Watkins Glen: Scott Brubaker, Haley Dean, Aiden DiGregorio, Collin Gaylord, Travis Hill, Josiah Wysocki, Sarah Swinnerton and Enqi Lin.

Odessa-Montour: Tassia Garrison, Brett Walters, Derrick Lewis, Grace Vondracek and Brooke Sikora.

Bradford: Adrianna Padgett, Blaze Machuga and Joseph Miller.

O-M unveils Fine Arts Award winners

ODESSA, June 22, 2020 -- Odessa-Montour High School has announced its annual Fine Arts Award winners. They are:

Photo Enthusiast: Josiah Lynch

Most Artistic: Ava Zahuranec (8), Hannah Barr (8), Jade Madill (9), Tristan Harrington (9), Gabriel Grover (10), Camille Sgrecci (10), Mackenzie Dundas (11), Malia Mertens (11), Micah Brewster (12), Kaelyn Arnold (12), Ashley Monroe (12)

Artist of the Year: Gabriel Grover

Theater Award: Dylan Holton

Senior Musicians: Justin Andrews, Arron Arnold, Kaelyn Arnold, Shania Austin, Micah Brewster, Dylan Holton, Jacob Mayette, Julia Paulisczak, Brooke Sikora, Rhys Stermer, Jordan Thompson, Dylan VonNeida, Cheianne Webster

Semper Fidelis Marine Band Award: Micah Brewster

John Philip Sousa Award: Rhys Stermer

National Choral Award: Rhys Stermer

WGHS unveils its annual student awards

Watkins Glen High School
Virtual High School Awards
June 2020

Rotary Students of the Month: September -- Isaac McIlroy; October -- Scott Brubaker;
November -- Zachary Burrows; December -- Tristin Rose-Morley; January -- Gabe Planty;
February -- Travis Hill; March -- Miranda Rodriguez

Top 10 of Class of 2020: Collin Gaylord, Sarah Swinnerton, Travis Hill, Aidan DiGregorio, Josiah Wysocki, Haley Dean, Scott Brubaker, Enqi Lin, Elaine Majors, and Peighton Cervoni

Varsity Academic Marathon: Scott Brubaker, Haley Dean, Aidan DiGregorio, Collin Gaylord, Travis Hill, Elaine Majors, Tristin Rose-Morley, Olivia Stephani, Sarah Swinnerton, and Josiah Wysocki

University of Rochester:
Bausch & Lomb Science Honorary Award: Brianna Hayes
Fredrick Douglas & Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences & Humanities:
Dylan Morse
George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Amanda Wilbur
Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology: Kayla Palmer

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award: Kayla Palmer & Seamus Mooney

Rochester Institute of Technology Junior Awards:
Innovation & Creativity Award: Timothy Clifford
Computing Medal and Scholarship Program: Bryce Kelly

Elmira College Key Award: Kelsey DeMillo and Mikayla Holmes

Keuka College Award:
The George H. Ball Community Achievement Award: Kelsey DeMillo, Amanda Wilbur,
Heidi Gardner, Seamus Mooney, Dylan Morse

Alfred University Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering Award for Academic Excellence: Brianna Hayes

Sage Colleges Student Scholarship:
Student Sage Award: Shannon Ervay, Heidi Gardner, and Seamus Mooney

Boy’s State Recognition Awards: Isaac McIlroy and Collin Gaylord

Girl’s State Recognition Awards: Sara Benedict-Augustine and Adrienna Solomon

Ruth Warner Math Awards: Brooke Usher and Nikhil Manakkal

TIES Volunteer Awards: Shannon Ervay

The Pulitzer Prize of Excellence in Scholastic Journalism: Robin Zimba

FOWL Library Service Awards: Elaine Majors and Kayla Palmer

Francis W. Blake Sportsmanship Awards: Kelsey Kernan and Elliott Holland

Barb Hughey Physical Education Award: Tristin Rose-Morley and Mason Neira

Water Safety Award: Peighton Cervoni

Senecas Football Award: Brandon Beaumont

Track & Field Award: Haley Dean and Elliott Holland

Mike Watson Wrestling Award: Zachary Burrows

Athletic Service Award: Scott Brubaker

Dr. Arthur J. Jackson Award: Peighton Cervoni and Isaac McIlroy

Coach Joseph J. Lemak, Sr. Award: Kelsey Kernan and Gabe Planty

T.J. O’Rourke Award: Adrienna Solomon

James Angelo, Sr. Basketball Award: Isaac McIlroy

Chemistry Regents Award: Kaitlin Asbury

Gerald Loughlin Biology Regents Award (Living Environment): Zachary Naylor, Matthew Sandritter, and Douglas DiGregorio

Physics Regents Award: Collin Gaylord

Earth Science Regents Award: Han Shun (Winnie) Liu

AP Achievement Award:
AP English Language and Composition Award: Haley Dean

English Regents Award: Eliya Stolpinski

Kate LaMoreaux Lover of Lit Award: Peighton Cervoni

Dugo-Bahns US History Regents Award: Haley Dean, Aidan DiGregorio and Collin Gaylord

Bahns-Dugo Global History Regents Award: Maria Brubaker and Dylan Morse

Marie Fitzsimmons Student Humanitarian Award: Zachary Burrows

Melissa B. Wilson Basketball Award: Aislinn Klemann

Valedictorian: Collin Gaylord
Salutatorian: Sarah Swinnerton

Watkins schools bid farewell to 10 retirees

WATKINS GLEN, June 17, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen School Board Monday night noted the retirement of 10 members of the school district staff.

They included:

Barb Dedominick: Elementary. Hired in 1988.
Karen Armstrong: Industrial Arts. Hired in 1985.
Mary Iandoli: Technology, elementary, middle school math. Hired in 1999.
Lindsey Starr: Teaching Assistant, attendance office, disciplinarian. Hired in 1998.
Linda Brown: Keyboard Specialist, Sr. Keyboard Specialist (high school and elementary school). Hired in 2010
Elaine Elsik: Typist, Keyboard Specialist, Sr. Keyboard Specialist (elementary and guidance). Hired in 1998.
Cindy Kain: Teacher Aide. Hired in 2005.
Jody DeVay: Teacher Aide. Hired in 2004.
Jeannie Andrews: Teacher Aide. Hired in 1997.
Gayle Sedlack: School District Treasurer, Public Library Treasurer, Tax Collector, Internal Auditor, Clerk, Business Manager. Hired in 1996.

O-M seniors get signs, caps and gowns

SCHUYLER COUNTY, June 11, 2020 -- School officials in the Odessa-Montour Central School District took to the road Thursday, following six routes around the county to deliver signs, swag bags, and caps and gowns to members of the graduating Class of 2020.

Said one official: "It was so much fun. We decorated our cars, played music, and made lots of noise to get the seniors out of their homes, all while socially distancing."

In a year lacking in so many school functions, this one served as a prelude to graduation week, which will include a trip by seniors to Watkins Glen International on Wednesday, June 24 for three laps in their cars around the famed racetrack. Then comes graduation at 6 p.m. Friday, June 26 on O-M's Charles Martin Field -- the school's football and soccer field.

Photo in text: Among the seniors visited Thursday were Justin Andrews, left, and Caleb Thomas. (Photo provided)

Posters of the WGHS seniors have been placed along both sides of Decatur Street.

With graduation in the air, Watkins Glen and O-M plan their outdoor ceremonies

SCHUYLER COUNTY, June 9, 2020 -- Graduation, a time of celebration that seemed imperiled by the coronavirus pandemic, is back on the front burner.

With Governor Andrew Cuomo’s recent reversal from his ban on stadium graduations to his approval -- but with a limitation of 150 participants -- local school districts have jumped on the opportunity, each reflecting the size of its graduating class.

Odessa-Montour: With a graduating class of 52, O-M has a big week planned -- with a graduation walk-through on Wednesday, June 24 in the O-M parking lot, and then a trip from there to the Watkins Glen International racetrack. School officials are hoping to line up a fire department escort from the school to the track, where each student will have the opportunity to drive (or ride) with family around the famed racetrack, behind a pace car.

Watkins Glen seniors visited WGI on Saturday, and the event was a big success.

Then on Friday, June 26 -- weather permitting -- Odessa's graduation will be held on the school football field, Charles Martin Field, with each graduate seated with two family members on the field, socially distanced from other attendees. Each graduate, with those family members, will first march along the track, with his or her accomplishments and academic and athletic awards announced. Each will then pose for photos with their guests on a riser before taking their seats.

The ceremony will include speeches by the co-Valedictorians, Brooke Sikora and Derrick Lewis, before each graduate is called up to the riser to receive his or her diploma. Pictures will be taken of that part of the celebration, as well.

If it rains, O-M is planning to hold the celebration the next day, June 27, at either 11 a.m. or 6 p.m.

Superintendent Chris Wood says that with all that the graduating seniors have been robbed of by the pandemic, “all I ask of Mother Nature is good weather on Wednesday, June 24, and on Friday, June 26."

Wood said he met with small groups of seniors this week -- meetings originally scheduled to discuss graduation alternatives before Governor Cuomo decided to permit stadium, in-person celebrations. The meetings were held anyway, with 47 of the 52 graduates attending to go over the new plans and the possibility of further changes.

“It was my best day in the last 100,” Wood said, “seeing students back in the building.”

If Cuomo loosens the 150-person restriction, the superintendent said, then the limit of two guests per graduate could go up, “and we’ll make adjustments. If it’s 200, then it will be three guests; if it’s 250, it will be four guests, and so on.”

Watkins Glen: The spirit of graduation kicked off with high spirits among students and family in the cars that circled the WGI track last Saturday evening. It is also evident in the posters that have been placed in frames and affixed to lawn running alongside Decatur Street near the school.

Those posters -- each graduate is pictured in a row of large photos on either side of the street -- were the result of fund-raising led by School Board President Gloria Brubaker and by Tammy Clarkson, wife of Board member Kris Clarkson. Unbeknownst to them, posters were also being offered by a company to districts around the area, so there are extras that Superintendent Greg Kelahan indicated would be visible at the graduation ceremony.

Actually, that’s ceremonies, plural, since the Watkins administration has devised a plan to enable graduates to invite guests despite Governor Cuomo’s 150-participant limiter.

Kelahan said High School Principal Kai D’Alleva and Senior Class Advisor Sam Brubaker came up with a plan to hold four graduations, each commencement exercise involving 21 of the 84 graduating seniors. They will be held on Saturday, June 27, on the school’s football field, at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

D’Alleva and Brubaker, he said, “are trying to maximize the experience for the kids.”

Each ceremony will be 45 minutes long, with the other 45 minutes between them used for transitioning to the next one -- for one group to exit, and the next group to enter.

Guests will be seated, socially distanced, on the field itself, while the graduating seniors will be on a riser in front of the grandstand, where diplomas will be conferred.

Kelahan stressed that the plan is tentative, subject to change if the Governor further changes his mind. If the 150-person limiter is increased, “we might combine the four ceremonies into two,” he said, or even into one if the limitation number were lifted or raised high.

“We’re doing what we can,” Kelahan said. “I don’t know how bigger districts are handling it." With the 150-person limit, those districts "would have to have ceremonies all day long.”

Photos in text: From top, Sign at O-M school, O-M School Superintendent Chris Wood, sign at WGHS, and Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan.

One of the WGHS seniors travels the track after the First Turn, along a scenic stretch.

WGHS seniors tour WGI as graduation nears

WATKINS GLEN, June 6, 2020 -- The Watkins Glen High School Class of 2020 -- robbed of the last three months of in-school activities and camaraderie by the pandemic -- got a special treat Saturday: a drive around the Watkins Glen International racetrack.

Track president Michael Printup said similar events have been held successfully at a couple of other International Speedway Corp. tracks. When Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan was approached to see if he was interested, "he jumped at it," said Printup.

The Odessa-Montour school district has also signed on for time at the track, although a specific date has not been announced.

The Watkins Glen school administration had hoped initially to get a photo of the class in the grandstand at WGI -- socially distanced from one another -- but that was vetoed.

Instead, the students -- one student and his or her family per car -- drove around and around the track behind a pace car, finally stopping at the finish line where, one by one, a class T-shirt and other memorabilia was handed to each graduate. The honorees and their families had to stay in their vehicles.

Each vehicle was urged forward -- as the one ahead of its pulled away -- by Superintendent Kelahan standing atop the wall separating the track from the pit area, waving a checkered flag. The students, for the most part, seemed delighted as High School Principal Kai D'Alleva and Senior Advisor Sam Brubaker handed them their packets.

The event coincided with the placement of photo banners featuring each individual student, held in sign holders and affixed to the ground along Decatur Street in Watkins Glen, not far from the school.

Photos in text:

Top: Superintendent Greg Kelahan waves the next car to the finish line.
Bottom: Senior Peighton Cervoni waves.

Left: Senior Drie Solomon. Right: Senior Scott Brubaker drove, accompanied by sister Maria, a WGHS junior

Two of the seniors' cars round the WGI track's First Turn. Most took the turn slowly.

Left: WGHS Principal Kai D'Alleva. Right: Senior Madeline Parker and her father.

Left: WGHS's Sam Brubaker starts the seniors' track laps. Right: Senior Karlee Meier lowers her mask for a photo.

The lights at Watkins Glen High School's Alumni Field were turned on Friday night as part of the school's distribution of graduation caps and gowns.

WGHS seniors pick up their caps and gowns

WATKINS GLEN, May 30, 2020 -- Graduating seniors at Watkins Glen High School returned to the school -- one by one in cars -- Friday night to pick up their graduation caps and gowns.

The students, whose daily school attendance ended back in March with the arrival in force of the coronavirus in the United States, showed up at the school one by one, staying in their cars -- some alone, some with a friend or two, and some with family --to collect the caps and gowns from masked WGHS personnel on hand for the event.

The distribution took place outside of the high school office entrance. The students, after being handed the items they came for, could then drive to the south end of the parking area and around its circle, and there get a look at the Alumni Field lights that have been darkened for so long but were bright on this night in honor of the graduates, and a look at the scoreboard, alight with numbers referencing the graduating class of 2020.

As for the graduation ceremony itself, plans are still being formulated.

Photo in text: WGHS senior Kelsey Kernan (at the wheel) and her parents sit in their car talking with faculty member Sam Brubaker.

From left: WGHS seniors Ali LaMoreaux, Gabe Planty and Isaac McIlroy.

Boxes with caps and gowns awaited the arrival of the students at WGHS Friday night.

The WGHS Allumni Field scoreboard as it appeared during the cap-and-gown pickup night.

WGHS's Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Watkins Glen High will graduate 84

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 27, 2020 -- Watkins Glen High School has released its list of 2020 graduates. It includes 84 students.

The district, meanwhile, is still looking at potential options for a ceremony that would be acceptable to state officials given the limitations created by the pandemic.

Watkins Glen High School
Graduating Class of 2020

David Armstrong
Dillon Bean
Brandon Beaumont
Sara Benedict-Augustine
Angelina Bravo
Scott Brubaker
Owen Buckley
Zachary Burrows
Jacey Carl
Madison Cary
Peighton Cervoni
William Chiacchiarini
Eleanor Clarkson
Dakota Clink
Haley Dean
Julia Delong
Nambdi DeSarno
Aidan DiGregorio
Hunter Doane
Austin Fedele
Garrett Gascon
Collin Gaylord
Merissa Green
Steven Gublo
Andrew Harrell
Austin Hazlitt
Andrew Herold
Andrea Heskell
Travis Hill
Elliott Holland
Dalton Ingraham
Katarena Jackson
Christopher Jacot
James Jensen
Makenzie Kellogg
Kelsey Kernan
Raiana Labonte
Alexandria LaMoreaux
Tyler LeRoux
Enkang Lin
Enqi Lin
Brittany Luke
Patrick Madaffari
Elaine Majors
Alixander Mathews
Isaac McIlroy
Pierce McKenzie
Karlee Meier
Damon Morgan
Jason Narde
Mason Neira
Madeline Parker
Jessica Peters
Gabriel Planty
Monet Price
Maggie Rhoads
Miranda Rodriguez
Kajsa Rolfes
Tristin Rose-Morley
Caleb Rozell
Bethany Rutledge
James Sager
Peter Sandritter
Zachary Schaffner
Nakendra Schwab
Dalton Shepherd
Derrian Shepherd
Bryson Simmons
Samuel Smith
Daniel Snow
Adrienna Solomon
Olivia Stephani
Eliya Stolpinski
Madelyn Suddaby
Sarah Swinnerton
Samuel Thorsland
Zackhery Torello
Cameren Underdown
Amber Updike
Hannah Warrick
Duncan Weber
Breanna Wilson
Josiah Wysocki
Sydnee Zigas

Odessa-Montour administration team members at a May 9 meeting included, from left: High School Principal Skip McCarty, Superintendent Chris Wood, and B.C. Cate Principal Jim Nolan.

Education in the Age of the Pandemic: budgets, remote learning and optimism

By Charlie Haeffner
Editor/Publisher

ODESSA, May 9, 2020 -- When Governor Andrew Cuomo announced what was pretty much expected -- no more school this academic year -- it was seen as the other shoe dropping.

No more classes. No sports seasons, not even shortened ones. No chance for seniors to enjoy their last year.

But while local school administrators remain upbeat -- optimistic about the future of education and, by extension, of the students -- there could be something else looming: a financial burden with a good deal more heft than a dropping shoe.

That burden is, for now, a specter. It is, specifically, a potential reduction of state aid. No district yet knows what kind of aid cut it might be facing, thanks to the drain on the state's coffers by the coronavirus pandemic, and because of the uncertainly of what, exactly, the federal government might do to help bail out the state's sinking hull.

Odessa-Montour Superintendent Chris Wood declines to put too heavy a spin on this threat. While laying out plans for various contingencies -- impossible to determine with any confidence, the situation in this country and state changing daily -- Wood points to times in the past when state aid was cut significantly, and yet the district managed to handle it; to adapt.

Part of that is the school staff, he said -- a "great" one "willing to work outside the box." And part of it is the community, which he lauds for its patience in this trying period. And part of it is just attitude. "We're gonna be optimistic," he said. "That's all we can do at this point."

Amid that backdrop, the O-M district and the Watkins Glen district School Boards adopted budgets this past week, not having any idea, really, what to expect from the federal government and the state. They are budgets with big what-ifs built in. And the boards approved them under a new edict: absentee balloting, with a deadline of June 9.

The Watkins Glen board approved a proposed budget Monday night totaling $26,478,877, representing a 0% increase in expenditures and a $0 increase in spending over the current year's spending plan.

"With the proposed budget," the district reports, "the tax levy would increase by the amount of $150,000 or 1.59%, which is below the maximum allowable limit by $192,669. The maximum would have been a 3.63% or $342,669 increase over prior year."

The O-M School Board, meanwhile, approved a spending plan Thursday night of $16,904,975 -- with a reduction of $400,000 in spending and with a good deal of discussion about the feared changes that might be wrought if the state aid reduction comes in at a significant level.

Once a budget is passed, it can't be increased -- only decreased. That leaves plenty to the imagination if a significant aid drop should occur. It is an unknown that gives pause, ranging in possibility from what O-M Board President Rob Halpin said was "anywhere from something we can deal with to something catastrophic."

About that vote:

Watkins Glen Superintendent Greg Kelahan voiced frustration at the order from the state that the public polling on the budget be done by write-in ballots -- creating a situation where the district (any district in the state, really) has to try and figure out who exactly, is out there with a potential vote. Anyone 18 and over residing in the district for 30 days can cast a ballot.

The vote is normally accomplished with legal notices and pamphlets sent out to known voters. But potential voters in the entirety are an oft-changing group for which no compenshesive list exists. This time, the state thinks, everyone out there who might vote should have a paper ballot that they can send back -- postage paid by the district.

"What was the governor thinking?" Kelahan asked. "We have to find everybody who votes. How am I going to do that?"

O-M Superintendent Chris Wood told the School Board Thursday that this new wrinkle poses a significant challenge. There might be one or two people in a household or apartment that the district is aware of, he said, but there could be two or three others they don't know about. And there are others it can not discover as easily -- folks new to the district, newly come of age, or never having voted.

O-M Board Clerk Mary Crippen said the district has a starting point with lists of past voters, but no lists of previous non-voters. "It's difficult," she said. "We're going to miss people."

And, it was noted at the O-M board meeting in passing, the new ballot process adds expense to the budget in the form of printing costs and mailings.

But Wood said it was just one of many challenges facing his administration. "It's one of those fun things we're going to be tackling," he told the School Board. "We'll do our best to get everyone the ballot," including posting notices urging anyone they missed to contact the district office.

The total number of potential votes our there? "Three to five thousand," Wood said -- a wide range reflective of the new, confusing reality.

Potential fallout

Maybe the federal government will come through and provide a life preserver of funding for New York State. Maybe, then, the state aid shortfall won't be extreme. But so many things have gone so wrong in so short a time, it's easy to imagine dire consequences.

For instance, if there were a significant aid decrease, what would get cut from the budget? That would spark immediate discussion, said Wood, who indicated non-mandated courses would be likely targets, as well as athletics. "Yeah," he added, "we may be not allowed to have fall sports" if the financial picture darkens.

But it all hinges on that aid, which Wood said he understands -- through conversations with other officials -- might be coming in late June.

To which Halpin replied, with no disrespect to those officials: "I have a difficult time feeling comfortable about that."

The bottom line, said Board member Karen Rock, is this: "We have no way of knowing anything until we get a number" on state aid.

"Right," Wood answered.

Budget vote

A whole different concern is passage itself of the budgets. While such plans have passed with regularity in recent years, what will a public hurting economically think of school spending plans? Will hard times translate into negative votes?

As Wood said to the School Board: "There is a lot of negativity out there right now," especially in the realm of social media. But at the same time he commended the public and the students for "their patience" in these trying times.

He said at a meeting Friday morning of his administration team that a budget defeat would lead to either an austerity budget that would trim certain preferred items from the spending plan, or to a second vote. That latter might be especially difficult to conclude by the end of the fiscal year, June 30, given the need to get printed ballots out again into the hands of the potential voters in the period from June 9 to the end of the month.

Graduation

One possibility that is developing is a graduation that is both physical and live-streaming in nature. As Wood outlined it to the O-M Board, the school's 52 graduates would -- if one potential plan comes together with the aid of health and law enforcement officials -- gather on O-M's Charles Martin Field, in front of vacant grandstands, the students spaced six feet apart. They would, one by one, walk along the track with their parents, in front of fellow graduates and the empty bleachers. The event would live stream for viewing by friends and relatives.

The achievements of each graduate would be enumerated on the PA system, and a diploma dispensed -- a photographer recording it for posterity. Possibly, Wood has indicated, trophies and other hardware earned by a graduate could be placed in a box for him or her to pick up.

Afterward, apparently, comes some icing. Watkins Glen International has invited the graduates to the racetrack, with students driving (behind a pace car) around the track two or three times. Then they would pose in a grandstand -- socially distant from one another -- for a group class photo.

The O-M board offered no objection to the WGI plan, which Wood said he would be finalizing the next day. Watkins' Superintendent Kelahan said his district was finalizing similar plans with WGI while also looking at various graduation ceremony "scenarios, both virtual and live."

Plus:

1. O-M administrators, at their Friday morning meeting, echoed Assemblyman Phil Palmesano's misgivings (see Palmesano) about Governor Cuomo's idea to "reimagine" state education to make it more remote than face-to-face.

Nothing, they said, can replace teacher to student education, live in a brick-and-mortar setting. There have been benefits from remote education -- and those can be incorporated into future teaching, they said. One possible benefit, suggested one with a smile: the elimination of snow days. Students could instead spend those days learning remotely from home.

2. Administrator Veronica Lewis and a grant writer obtained a $6,000 grant from the Community Foundation to obtain goods needed by district families who have lost their jobs or had their lives otherwise disrupted by the pandemic.

Forty families were contacted; twenty eight responded, and Lewis and a group of teachers shopped for them and arranged pickup of the goods by the families at the Odessa-Montour and B.C. Cate campuses.

3. The lights at Charles Martin Field behind the O-M school were turned on in the dusk Friday night from 8:00 to 8:20 p.m. in honor of the school's seniors -- the 20 minutes representing 2020 as part of a "Be The Light" campaign. The scoreboard was also lit, with a 20-minute countdown and the score knotted at 20-20. Watkins Glen was expected to follow suit on the weekend.

4. The O-M district was still mulling ways to present year-end and graduation awards to students, as well as how it might proceed with athletic honors. Wood said the media would be sent lists of the various honorees.

5. Superintendent Wood, in this difficult time, pointed to four positives through it all:

"How great the community has been."
"The parents and kids have been fantastic."
"The teachers have risen to the challenge."
"It's good to see we all have each other's back."

Photos in text:

Top four: O-M administration team members on hand for a Friday meeting included, from top: Superintendent Chris Wood; Hanlon Elementary Principal Rob Francischelli; Director of Special Programs and Curriculum Veronica Lewis, and Assistant Director of Facilities Kelly Cain.

Bottom two: Goods purchased for families through a Community Foundation grant; and the scoreboard on Charles Martin Field, lit for 20 minutes Friday night in honor of the O-M senior class.

The lights at O-M's Charles Martin Field were turned on for 20 minutes Friday night in honor of the graduating Class of 2020.

Annual student plant sale beginning

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, April 30, 2020 -- The GST BOCES Bush Education Center’s FFA chapter will hold its annual Spring Plant Sale beginning on May 1.

This year’s event will be held at Sunset View Creamery, 4970 County Road 14, at Catharine Corners outside Odessa. Items available include a variety of hanging baskets and potted plants.

The hours of the sale are Monday-Friday from 3:00-7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Hospital Auxiliary offering scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

$1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, and to hospital employees wishing to further their education in the health care field.

Applications may be found on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org. Guidance counselors in Schuyler County schools also have applications available.

Applications must be postmarked by June 5, 2020.

For more information, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary member Alice Learn at (607) 594-3401.

Rotary Club scholarship deadline extended

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 9, 2020 -- The Watkins-Montour Rotary Club has extended the deadline for applications for high school scholarships to Friday, May 1.

A $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior at Odessa-Montour Central School and at Watkins Glen High School. The scholarships are based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, educational goals and a demonstration of “Service above Self,” the motto of Rotary International.

The application is available on the Club’s Facebook page at Watkins-Montour Rotary Club. The application and accompanying documents should be mailed to Watkins-Montour Rotary Club Scholarship, P.O. Box 384, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

For more information, contact Rotarian Jim Somerville by email at 5somervilles@gmail.com.

Tables set up in the O-M gymnasium carried books and belongings of the district students. The items were picked up throughout Tuesday by parents.

Students, parents pick up books, belongings

SCHUYLER COUNTY, March 17, 2020 -- Students and their parents picked up the kids' belongings and books Tuesday in Schuyler County school districts and received assignments to pursue during the forced hiatus from school.

The Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen schools are closed until at least April 13 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

At O-M, parents of students visited the high school Tuesday to pick up belongings gathered by school staff and placed on about 80 tables lined up, row after row, in the main gymnasium. Superintendent Chris Wood reported a large turnout.

At Watkins Glen, students stopped by to empty their lockers and to pick up assignments and related textbooks set up by staff on tables in the high school cafeteria. Assignments were also being placed on the school website.

Nobody knows when the students might actually return to classes, although Watkins Glen Superintendent Greg Kelahan was upbeat Tuesday, insisting April 13 was a realistic target date. Wood, meeting with staff in the morning in the Fetter-Brown Auditorium at the high school, took a different tack, telling his audience that he wasn't sure if this was a "See ya later" situation or one that means "goodbye" for the duration of the school year.

Photo in text: Odessa-Montour Superintendent Chris Wood addresses teachers and other staff members Tuesday morning.

Left: Arrows in the O-M parking lot and approaching sidewalk pointed the way to the books and belongings being picked up by parents. Right: One of the tables with assignments set up in the Watkins Glen High School cafeteria.

O-M to offer meal pick-up for families

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, March 16, 2020 -- In an effort to ensure that no child is hungry during the unexpected school closures, the Odessa-Montour Central School District will offer curbside meal pick-up for district students and their siblings beginning on Wednesday, March 18.

One bagged breakfast and lunch for each child will be available for pick-up Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (as long as supplies for the day last) at the following locations:

--Odessa-Montour Jr./Sr. High School -- Bus Loop
300 College Avenue, Odessa

--B.C. Cate Elementary School -- Bus Loop
262 Canal Street, Montour Falls

Schuyler schools will close from March 18 to April 13

SCHUYLER COUNTY, March 14, 2020 -- Schuyler County schools will soon close their doors to students in response to fears of the Coronavirus pandemic.

A message sent out Saturday afternoon on a school all-call and on school websites and Twitter by the Superintendents of the three Schuyler school districts -- Odessa-Montour (Chris Wood), Watkins Glen (Greg Kelahan) and Bradford (John Marshall) -- announced the upcoming closure of schools.

"Thank you," the message said, "for your flexibility and patience as our response to COVID-19 has been rapidly evolving each day. As an education community, we continue to make the safety of our students and staff the main focus in our decision-making process. We have been working diligently with our community partners to plan and respond to this emerging issue. We have been in constant contact with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and County Public Health, while receiving updated guidance from the New York State Department of Education (NYSED) regularly.

"Although there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Schuyler or Chemung counties, we have been advised that temporarily closing schools would be the best course of action to help prevent outbreak in our communities. Schools in the Bradford, Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen Central School Districts will be closed on Monday, March 16 to allow our staff time to prepare learning materials for students to complete at home. School will be in session on Tuesday, March 17 so that students can receive those materials and staff can discuss plans for continuing learning with their classes.

"Schools will be closed on Wednesday, March 18 and will remain closed until Monday, April 13.

"We will continue to communicate additional details in the coming days. We appreciate your cooperation during this challenging time."

While New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Friday that he would not close schools -- citing the domino effect that it can have in terms of families' daycare needs and the stress it will place on employee attendance, including that at much-needed hospitals -- Tompkins County announced that same day that it was closing its schools.

All seven Tompkins districts and its BOCES will be closed for at least four weeks. A state of emergency was also declared in Tompkins, where the first confirmed case of Coronavirus was announced late Saturday morning. A total of 52 people had been quarantined in that county, with 15 tests pending.

"These are some crazy times we live in," said one area school official, noting that online instruction was not feasible in Schuyler since many students in the rural parts of the county lack internet connectivity.

School closings were also announced Saturday afternoon in Chemung and Steuben Counties for roughly the same time period.

Odessa-Montour National Honor Society inductees (from left) Kaetlyn White, Delaney Paulisczak and Haley Albertsman.

National Honor Society inducts 9 at O-M

ODESSA, Jan. 15, 2020 -- Nine students were inducted into the Odessa-Montour High School chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony Wednesday night in the school's Fetter-Brown Auditorium.

Joining the NHS were Haley Albertsman, Annaleise Beckley, Mackenzie Cannon, Gabriel Grover, Emma Malnoske, Marissa Marsh, Delaney Paulisczak, Aidan Thurston and Kaetlyn White.

Emcee for the event was Shea Heffron, the chapter advisor, who led the inductees and other members of the NHS through a ceremony that included a candle-lighting symbolic of the four criteria for induction, or "pillars" of the organization: scholarship, leadership, service and character.

President of the chapter is senior Derrick Lewis. Madison Vogel serves as vice president and treasurer, and Samantha Dudgeon is the secretary.

Wednesday night's ceremony was followed by a social gathering in the school cafeteria, complete with congratulatory cake.

Photo in text: Chapter advisor Shea Heffron presented certificates to each inductee, here to Gabriel Grover.

From left: Inductees Aidan Thurston, Emma Malnoske and Annaleise Beckley.

Members of the Watkins Glen High School varsity cross country team pose after receiving certificates recognizing their achievement of a Section 4 title.

WGHS Section 4 title teams honored

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 17, 2019 -- Members of the Section IV champion Watkins Glen boys cross country and girls swim teams were presented certificates commemorating those titles at Monday night's meeting of the district School Board.

The teams, gathered in the school library adjacent to the Board meeting room, were presented the certificates -- athlete by athlete called forward to receive them -- while family members watched and applauded.

Cross country team members included Tim Clifford, Max Evans, Steven Gublo, Elliott Holland, Makenzie Kellogg, Breanna Carl, Lawrence Majors, Gabe Planty, Liam Smith, Ben Swinnerton and Sam Thorsland.

Swim team members included Kimberly Smith Brown, Maria Brubaker, Scott Brubaker (the manager), Sydney Brubaker, Malina Butler, Alannah Klemann, Ali LaMoreaux, Peighton Cervoni, Ellie Clarkson, Kendra Fish, Aislinn Klemann, Thalia Marquez, Faye Mooney, Madeline Parker, Kajsa Rolfes, Sarah Stolpinski, Sarah Swinnerton and Amanda Wilbur.

Photo in text: Watkins Glen senior Gabe Planty receives his cross-country certificate and a handshake from Athletic Director Rod Weeden.

Members of the Watkins Glen High School girls varsity swim team -- which has won the Section IV, Class C title for three straight years -- pose with the certificates presented to them at the School Board meeting.

Chorus, band offer winter concert at O-M

ODESSA, Dec. 12, 2019 -- 'Tis the season.

The Odessa-Montour High School Fetter-Brown Auditorium was the site Wednesday evening of a Senior High Winter Concert -- concerts being a staple of any year's run-up to Christmas.

Featured: The Senior High Choir (performing A la nanita nana, Earth Song and Sing, Sing Noel!) and the Senior High Band (pictured here, playing Battle Pavane, Marche Diabolique, Rest and Sleigh Ride).

The choir was directed by Ian MacDonald, with Alex MacDonald serving as accompanist. The band was directed by Jennifer Kraemer.

GST BOCES offers water exercise class

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, Nov. 9, 2019 -- An Aerobic Fun in the Water Class is planned for the Odessa-Montour High School pool on Monday nights beginning Nov. 18.

The class, which needs a minimum attendance of eight people, will consist of seven one-hour classes for a total of $56. Those over 62 should ask for a senior discount of 10%. All classes begin at 7 p.m.

Water aerobics is recommended for anyone with joint issues. Doctors often recommend water exercise to take the pressure off the joints while still raising the heart rate. Men and women of all ages are welcome. The phone number to sign up is 607-739-4296.

The Seneca Indians varsity football team listens to its coaches during a practice Monday.

Board rejects plea for athletic field honor following passing of former coach Bob Lee

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 26, 2019 -- A plea Monday evening to the Watkins Glen School Board to have Alumni Field renamed in honor of the late Robert H. Lee was immediately rejected as contrary to school district policy.

Lee, 74 -- a former Watkins Glen mayor and former football coach at Watkins Glen High School -- died about 5 a.m. Monday at his Watkins Glen home. He had been in declining health.

While the Seneca Indians varsity football team was practicing Monday at WGHS, four members of the team -- its captains -- visited the School Board at its scheduled meeting in a room next to the school library.

Dominick Fazzary spoke for the quartet, which included Cameron Holland, Gage Arcangeli and Boyd Barber. Fazzary, reading from text on his phone prepared by his father, team Assistant Coach Jeff Fazzary, explained that his father was too emotional to present the plea to the board himself. The senior Fazzary viewed Lee as a mentor.

"We request the new field be named after Bob Lee," the message said -- reference to the artificial turf unveiled on Alumni Field last school year. Fazzary added that Lee had impacted "hundreds upon hundreds" of student athletes at Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour, Bradford and Elmira Notre Dame high schools -- each a stop on his long coaching career.

Fazzary's note urged the board to go into executive session "and take into consideration how much Bob Lee meant to the school." He urged action "so we can get this going before the first game." The team opens its season Sept. 6 at Susquehanna Valley, and plays at O-M against Bainbridge-Guilford on Sept. 13. The Seneca Indians team is composed of players from both the WGHS and O-M schools.

The four players, their mission complete, turned to leave, but School Board President Gloria Brubaker said she could give them an answer right away.

"We've been through this in the past," she said, explaining that many such requests -- to rename athletic facilities, school buildings and classrooms -- had been made over the years. But it is "against school practice" to do so, she added, explaining that had the board honored all those requests, there would be no more facilities left to name.

"This doesn't diminish our respect," she said. "It's the way it's always been handled." But she said alternative modes of honoring Lee might be acceptable. "Get your thinking caps on," she told the players, adding a personal note on Lee: "He was my daughter's favorite coach, ever."

After the players filed out, Superintendent Greg Kelahan said he "truly appreciates the athletes talking from their hearts. I know it's difficult for the school to contend with these very emotional issues."

Outside, as the varsity football squad was jogging from a sled session on a practice field to workouts on Alumni Field, head coach Trevor Holland -- who played football on Lee teams during his high school career -- said Lee "was all about people."

While the kids on the current team "didn't get to know him like I did," Holland said, those who played last year experienced Lee's brand of encouragement as he served an assistant's role on the sidelines at games, calling out to them as he leaned on his walker.

"They respected him," aaid Holland, adding that Lee's presence "resonated."

A name change of the field aside, he said, the team plans to honor Lee in some fashion "for all that he did" for the kids at multiple schools. "He wanted kids to play sports ... to stay out of trouble."

His legacy?

"He was always there for the kids," said Holland.

Photos in text:

Top: School Board President Gloria Brubaker at Monday's meeting.
Middle: Bob Lee.
Bottom: School Superintendent Greg Kelahan makes a point.

Hospital Auxiliary awards 3 scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 23, 2019 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has awarded $1,000 scholarships to two high school graduates who are planning to enter the healthcare field, and one Schuyler Hospital employee furthering her healthcare education. They are:

--Kennedey Heichel, daughter of Ryan and Jeffrey Heichel of Odessa, who graduated in June from Odessa-Montour Central School. She plans to attend Ithaca College in pursuit of a healthcare career.

--Cierra Barber, daughter of Brad and Sheila Barber of Hector, who graduated from Watkins Glen Central School in June. She will attend Mercyhurst Northeast to start her education toward becoming an athletic trainer.

--Cindy Durfey, of Alpine, Unit Clerk for Schuyler Hospital’s Emergency Department since 2013, who is pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Applied Science for Nursing at Corning Community College.

Scholarship awards are presented each year to graduating high school seniors who live or attend school in Schuyler County and plan to enter careers in the healthcare field, as well as Schuyler Hospital employees looking to continue their education in healthcare.

Awards are based on academic achievement, volunteerism, and personal essays. Previous recipients have been in such diverse fields as orthopedics, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, speech therapy, and pharmacy.

The Auxiliary awarded its first scholarship of $250 in 1990. Over the next 20 years it grew to three $1,000 scholarships. Funds for the awards are raised through the Auxiliary’s hospital gift shop and other fundraising events.

For more information about the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, call (607) 535-7121 or email info@schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: Seated: Kennedey Heichel. Standing from left: Cindy Durfey and Cierra Barber. (Photo provided)

3 earn scholarships from Afternoon Club

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 3, 2019 -- The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club is presenting three $150 scholarships to graduating seniors -- one student from each of three schools.

This year’s scholarship winner from Bradford Central School is Rebecca Hargrave. She is in a trades program, and has excelled in it. Rebecca will attend Houghton College in the fall.

Hannah Rosier was selected from Odessa-Montour Central School. She is involved with the arts, and will attend Emerson College in the fall, studying Theater Education.

Austin Voorheis was chosen from Watkins Glen Central School. He will attend SUNY Polytechnic Institute in the fall.

The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club meets once a month and is interested in obtaining knowledge and staying current with everyday society. The scholarships are annual.

Maria Antonio wins $1,000 Arc Scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, July 1, 2019 -- The Arc of Schuyler awarded its Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship to Bradford High School graduate Maria Antonio at her June 28 commencement ceremony.

The $1,000 scholarship honors Joanne Hayes, former board member and president of The Arc of Schuyler’s board of directors who passed away in 1987. The award is given annually to a graduating senior pursuing an education in human services, special education, or a related field for a career providing supports to people with developmental disabilities.

Miss Antonio, daughter of Michael and Robin Antonio, will enroll at Elmira College this fall seeking a Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education / Special Education. In her application essay, she expressed her desire to “have a positive impact on someone with special needs” in her career.

Antonio has been involved with numerous service clubs, volunteer experiences and sports throughout her years in high school. “Maria’s kindness, positive attitude and overall leadership toward both teachers and peers is something that always stood out in my eyes, as well as the effort she put forth in her scholastic studies and overall effort to make her school a better place for all students,” said Jon Marshall, Bradford Central School Superintendent, in his letter of support.

The Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship is made possible through donations to The Arc of Schuyler, a not-for-profit organization providing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. For more information, visit arcofschuyler.org

Photo in text: Maria Antonio (Photo provided)

Alumni Association scholarship recipients included five Watkins Glen High School graduating seniors. From left: H Nathaniel Rose, Danielle Leszyk, Nancy Jackson, Julie Liu and Annika Wickham.

Rondinaro honored at Alumni Banquet

WATKINS GLEN, June 23, 2019 -- An estimated 350 people were on hand Saturday for the 94th annual Watkins Glen High School Alumni Banquet, held at the Watkins Glen Community Center.

Honored this year as a Distinguished Alumnus was broadcaster Steve Rondinaro, who spoke about some pranks he pulled as a WGHS student -- one involving putting dead frogs in lockers -- and said: "Thank you for forgiving and forgetting."

Rondinaro has, in his long career, interviewed many historic figures, including Paul McCartney, Ronald Reagan and Ted Williams.

He has also demonstrated a lifelong devotion to Drum and Bugle Corps competitions, starting with the local Squires Drum and Bugle Corps -- which was a winner of multiple state championships. Among those present Saturday was Chuck Calhoun, one of the founders of the Squires, and a member of the WGHS Class of 1949.

Rondinaro, in fact, is a member of the Drum Corps International Hall of Fame -- inducted in 2013 after involvement as the face and voice of DCI television and movie theater broadcasts since the late 1970s.

The large gathering -- with the meal catered by Bleachers Sports Bar & Grill of Watkins Glen -- also saw five graduating seniors honored with scholarships. Receiving plaques were Nancy Jackson, Danielle Leszyk, H Nathaniel Rose, Annika Wickham and Julie Liu. A total of $7,000 was distributed.

Photos in text: Steve Rondinaro delivers his keynote address; and banquet workers Brienna Solomon (Class of 2017), Amber Benjamin (2018) and Olivia Paradiso (2009).

Members of the Class of 1979 celebrate after being announced as part of the Roll Call of Classes at the Alumni Banquet.

Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan, left, talks with WGHS alumni, from left, Steve Rondinaro, Dennis Morris and Jud Spena.

Left: WGHS student Maria Brubaker, one of several students introduced who represent talent in the fine arts at WGHS. She had the lead in the recent school musical production of "Once Upon a Mattress." Right: Chuck Calhoun, Class of 1949, one of the founders of the Squires Drum and Bugle Corps.

Barb Warner Deane, Class of 1979 and the author of several novels, including the new "And Then There Was You," in which a lead character (in the words of a book promo) was "born in the back of a VW microbus during the 1973 Summer Jam rock concert in the small town of Watkins Glen."

Watkins Glen High School seniors pose in the school gymnasium (Photo provided)

Watkins Glen seniors march in robes;
O-M's Houseknecht honored by BOCES

WATKINS GLEN, June 18, 2019 -- Members of the Watkins Glen High School Class of 2019 marched the halls of the WG Elementary School Tuesday in an annual rite.

Donning the caps and gowns they will wear at their graduation Saturday afternoon (2 p.m. in the high school auditorium), the seniors were applauded by elementary school students as they passed by.

Afterward, the graduates-to-be gathered in the high school gymnasium for a group photo (shown above).

Note: The graduation list provided by the school shows 85 seniors receiving diplomas. The valedictorian is Joe Chedzoy. The salutatorian is Kathleen Clifford.

Odessa-Montour High School, meanwhile, has 65 seniors on its graduation list. The O-M commencement ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, June 28 in the school's Fetter-Brown Auditorium. Kennedey Heichel is the valedictorian, while Noah Burton Brewster is the salutatorian.

Meanwhile: O-M senior Dylan Houseknecht (pictured at right) -- the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division 2 wrestling champion at 285 pounds and a member of the Top Drawer 24 team of outstanding student-athletes in the area -- was named the GST BOCES Student of the Year at the BOCES graduation Tuesday night.

The honor goes to one of the recipients of a BOCES Student of the Month Award given in his or her junior or senior year. Says BOCES: "It is given to the student who best embraces the principles of our GST BOCES values, which are integrity, collaboration, leadership, and service." The winner receives a check for $1,500.

O-M presents its Fine Arts Awards

ODESSA, June 14, 2019 -- Odessa-Montour High School honored its Fine Arts students recently with an awards night at the school.

"Our Fine Arts had another outstanding year," said O-M Superintendent Chris Wood. "Our students and staff go above and beyond the norm. Our students and staff are some of the best, if not the best, in the region. I am truly amazed at what they can do and what they have accomplished."

Among the awards and recognitions were the following:

Most Outstanding Artist:
Ashley Monroe

Excellence in Art Awards: Mackenzie Dundas, Allison and Molly Heichel, Manu Tripoloni, Haley Albertsman.

U.S. Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award: Hailey Ferguson

John Philip Sousa Band Award:
N. Burton Brewster

National Choral Award:
Casey Underdown

OMCS Fine Arts Boosters Theatre Award: Hannah Rosier

Fine Arts Boosters Scholarship Recipients: Hailey Ferguson, Hannah Rosier

NYSSMA Solo Medals:

Level IV voice, excellent rating -- Felisha Cook
Level IV voice, outstanding rating -- Taryn Hoyt and Dylan Holton
Level VI voice, gold rating -- Rhys Stermer
Level V saxophone, gold rating -- Sarah Barr
Level VI saxophone, gold rating -- Rhys Stermer

NYSSMA Area All State Medals:

Casey Underdown, voice
Rhys Stermer, saxophone

NYSSMA Conference All State Certificates:

Casey Underdown, voice
Rhys Stermer, saxophone

NAfME Conference All East recognition:

Casey Underdown, voice

Senior Recognition: N. Burton Brewster, Hailey Ferguson, Kayla Gokey, Emily Holton, Pixie Kinner, Jacy Knapp, McKennah Lott, Hannah Rosier, Maria Scata, Casey Underdown

Illustration in text: Art by Mackenzie Dundas.

O-M Board honors Westervelt, Houseknecht; approves new roles for Lewis and Nolan

ODESSA, June 14, 2019 -- The Odessa-Montour School Board Thursday night honored two people who are leaving: longtime Board member Scott Westervelt, who was attending his final regular Board session, and student Dylan Houseknecht, who will soon graduate on his way to college at SUNY Cortland.

Westervelt was lauded by Superintendent Chris Wood and Board President Rob Halpin, both extolling Westervelt's long career as a teacher and multi-sport coach -- from 1970 to his retirement in 2003, after which he "jumped right into subbing," Wood said --and as a Board member. Westervelt was first elected in 2008.

Houseknecht -- who was present in the Board meeting room for a celebratory signing anticipating his participation in football at SUNY Cortland -- was lauded, too, with Wood saying he had been a fine representative for the district in the humble way he handled his success this year on the wrestling mats.

As a mark of its appreciation, the district presented Houseknecht with a jacket with OMCS and Wrestling NYS Champ emblazoned on its back.

During the meeting the Board, among other things, approved James Nolan as the new principal of B.C. Cate Elementary School in addition to his role as Director of Instructional Technical Education. His new position takes effect on July 1.

He succeeds Veronica Lewis at B.C. Cate. She will be the district's Curriculum Coordinator and Special Programs Director.

Photos in text: Board member Scott Westervelt (top) and new B.C. Cate principal James Nolan at Thursday's Board session.

O-M bestows its Academic Awards

ODESSA, June 11, 2019 -- Odessa-Montour High School honored a number of its students with Academic Awards at an assembly on Monday, June 10 in the high school auditorium.

They included the following:

CONNIE TORPY JONES MEMORIAL AWARD-- Kennedey Heichel

WELLS COLLEGE 21ST CENTURY LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Hannah Chapman, Faith Switzer

HONOR ROLL:
This award is presented to students who have been on the Honor Roll (84.5 average) the first five marking periods this school year.

Freshmen
Jana Arias
Robert Hess
Madison Moss
Sophomores
Brielle Arias
Lillian Betts
Reagan Bishop
Taylor Cain
Emilee Chaffinch
Jeffrey Eberhardt
Autumn Garrison
Josiah Lynch
Malia Mertens
Brock Sgrecci
Juniors
Marisa Alton
Shania Austin
Hannah Chapman
Samantha Dudgeon
Sara Gardner
Ryan Griswold
Presto Harris
Deshawn Johnson
Lydia Lynch
Ashley Monroe
Kara Reese
Rhys Stermer
Faith Switzer
Brett Walters
Cheianne Webster
Seniors
Hannah Bruno
Hunter Daugherty
Isabel Foote
Collin Haag
Jacy Knapp
Jadyn Lauper
Emma Lodge
Troy Peoples
Hannah Rosier
Maria Scata

MATH DEPARTMENT AWARDS:
Algebra -- Kaetlyn White
Geometry -- Camille Sgrecci
Trigonometry -- Madison Vogel
4 Year Math Award -- Noah Brewster

TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS:
Certificate of Excellence in Technology:
Trent Austin, Rowan Hollenbeck, Kirt Menzi, John Niedermaier, Troy Peoples

HISTORY DEPARTMENT AWARDS:
Economics Highest Average -- Briana Lockwood
Government Highest Average -- Destine Burnham and Emma Lodge
Joseph Lemak Global Studies Award -- Tassia Garrison
Edward Banfi U.S. History Award -- Noah Brewster

PHYSICAL EDUCATION BABE RUTH AWARDS -- Olivia Grover, Andy Hartford
Grade 11 Physical Education Awards -- Cheianne Webster, Paden Grover
Grade 10 Physical Education Awards -- Emilee Chaffinch,Cameron Elliott
Grade 9 Physical Education Awards -- Delaney Paulisczak, Keith June
Senior High Health Education Award -- Julia Paulisczak

USMC Scholastic Excellence Award -- Noah Brewster

NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL TRIPLE C AWARD -- Derrick Lewis, Faith Switzer

ENGLISH AWARDS:
English 9 Award -- Marissa Marsh
English 10 Award -- Madison Vogel
English 11 Award -- Brooke Sikora
English 12 Award -- Madison Morrissey
ACE English Academic Award -- Kennedey Heichel

SPANISH AWARDS:
Spanish II Achievement Awards -- Marissa Marsh, Aiden Thurston
Spanish III Achievement Awards -- Megan Adams, Madison Vogel
Spanish IV Achievement Award -- Grace Vondracek
ACE Spanish Achievement Award -- Kennedey Heichel
5-year Spanish Achievement Award -- Tyler Carson, Kennedey Heichel, McKennah Lott, Hannah Rosier, Casey Underdown, William Yeater

Celebrate Excellence Awards: Highest average for the school year:
Grade 9 -- Marissa Marsh
Grade 10 -- Madison Vogel
Grade 11 -- Brooke Sikora

BAUSCH AND LOMB HONORARY SCIENCE AWARD -- Brooke Sikora

BOYS STATE AWARD -- Paden Grover

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER FREDERICK DOUGLAS AND SUSAN B. ANTHONY AWARD -- Samantha Dudgeon

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT AWARDS:
Earth Science -- Madison Vogel
Living Environment -- Kaetlyn White
Chemistry -- Derrick Lewis
Physics -- Kennedey Heichel
Four Year Science Awards -- Brandon Bordonaro, Tyler Carson, Hailey Ferguson, Kennedey Heichel, Jacqulyn Kinner and McKennah Lott

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER GEORGE EASTMAN LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Grace Vondracek

NYS OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Nadia Simpson

ELMIRA COLLEGE KEY AWARD -- Paden Grover and Brooke Sikora

PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD -- Megan Adams, Haley Albertsman, Marisa Alton, Joshua Beckley, Noah Brewster, Tyler Carson, Hannah Chapman, Felisha Cook, Veer Patel, Delaney Paulisczak, Julia Paulisczak, Rhys Stermer, Grace Vondracek

HIGH HONOR ROLL:
This award is presented to students who have been on the High Honor Roll (89.5 average) the first five marking period this school year.

Freshmen
Haley Albertsman
Annaleise Beckley
Gabriel Grover
Keith June
Alexis King
Marissa Marsh
Delaney Paulisczak
Veer Patel
Camille Sgrecci
Aiden Thurston
Kaetlyn White
Sophomores
Megan Adams
Abigail Chapman
Jared Rumsey
Samantha Sipes
Madison Vogel
Juniors
Derrick Lewis
Julia Paulisczak
Brooke Sikora
GraceVondracek
Seniors
Mckenzie Barrett
Noah Brewster
Destine Burnham
Kayla Gokey
Kennedey Heichel
Dylan Houseknecht
Briana Lockwood
Madison Morrissey
Claudia Parez
Madison Randall
Tori Reese
Nadia Simpson
Manuela Tripoloni

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY COMPUTING MEDAL --
Paden Grover, Grace Vondracek

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY AWARD -- Brooke Sikora, Brett Walters

CLARKSON UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT AND LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Preston Harris, Caleb Thomas

RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE WOMEN OF INFLUENCE AWARD -- Sara Gardner, Kara Reese

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER XEROX AWARD -- Derrick Lewis

RENSSELAER MEDAL -- Derrick Lewis

KEUKA COLLEGE GEORGE H. BALL COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Julia Paulisczak, Caleb Thomas, Ryan Griswold, Ashley Monroe, Noah Hollenbeck

CORNING CREDIT UNION STUDENT BRANCH SCHOLARSHIP -- Jacqulyn
Kinner

PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE (Must have 90 average and College Entrance Exam Scores at or above the 85th Percentile): Noah Brewster, Kennedey Heichel and Hannah Rosier

FOUR YEAR HONORS:
(Seniors who have a 3-5/6 year average of 85 or above)
Mckenzie Barrett
Noah Brewster
Hannah Bruno
Destine Burnham
Tyler Carson
Hunter Daugherty
Hailey Ferguson
Olivia Grover
Kennedey Heichel
Rowan Hollenbeck
Dylan Houseknecht
Jacqulyn Kinner
Pixie Kinner
Jacy Knapp
Cassondra Lisk
Briana Lockwood
Emma Lodge
McKennah Lott
Madison Morrissey
Leah Overhiser
Madison Randall
Tori Reese
Donald Roberts
Hannah Rosier
Lynsay Ruocco
Alexis Saunders
Maria Scata
Nadia Simpson
Casey Underdown
Kacie Wood
William Yeater

Odessa-Montour honorees are, from left: Jackie Kinner, Kennedey Heichel, Mckenzie Barrett, Madison Randall, Kacie Wood, Noah Brewster and Maria Scata.

18 students honored as Schuyler Scholars

WATKINS GLEN, June 7, 2019 -- Eighteen graduating seniors from three high schools were honored Thursday evening for finishing in the top 10% of their class -- recipients of plaques presented at the 12th annual Schuyler Scholars dinner at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

Two students from Bradford High School, seven from Odessa-Montour and nine from Watkins Glen were honored.

The awards were preceded by a dinner and then speeches by two men: former Schuyler Scholar Matt Gill, a WGHS alum who recently earned his Masters degeree in Electrical Engineering from Binghamton University; and Tom Phillips, retired Watkins Glen School Superintendent and co-founder of the Schuyler Scholars program.

The Schuyler Scholars awards were initiated after Schuyler County was dropped from the Twain Scholars program in Chemung County a dozen years ago. It traditionally features a keynote speaker and a former Schuyler Scholar.

Honored Thursday night were:

Bradford High School: Micah Gallagher and Maria Antonio.
Odessa-Montour High School: Kennedey Heichel, Noah Brewster, Mckenzie Barrett, Jacqulyn Kinner, Madison Randall, Maria Scata and Kacie Wood.
Watkins Glen High School: Joseph Chedzoy, Kathleen Clifford, Isabella Fazzary, H Nathaniel Rose, Kishan Patel, Emilee Stephani, Kai Sutterby, Austin Voorheis and Casen Weeden.

In his speech, Gill said there are four markers to achieve for success: Be Happy, Be Kind to Others, Be Curious and Find Your Why (your passion).

Phillips told the honorees to "embrace" their success, but to also understand that they are embarking on a new beginning -- and that "it's not where you start; it's where you finish.... Hold tight to your dreams."

Present on the dais were Superintendents John Marshall (Bradford), Chris Wood (O-M) and Greg Kelahan (Watkins Glen). Announcing the honorees and handing out plaques were principals Katheryn Ellison (Bradford), Skip McCarty (O-M) and Kai D'Alleva (Watkins Glen).

*****

Photos in text:

Top: Watkins Glen honorees include: Standing from left, Casen Weeden, Austin Voorheis, Emilee Stephani, Kishan Patel, Joe Chedzoy and Kathleen Clifford; and front from left: Kai Sutterby and Isabella Fazzary.

Middle: Former Schuyler Scholar Matt Gill presents a speech at Thursday's dinner.

Bottom: Former Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips delivers his speech.

Left: Superintendents (from left) Greg Kelahan (Watkins Glen), Chris Wood (O-M) and John Marshall (Bradford). Right: Bradford Valedictorian Micah Gallagher gets a hug from Superintendent John Marshall.

From left: Watkins Glen's Isabella Fazzary and Kai Sutterby; O-M's Kennedey Heichel and Watkins Glen's Joe Chedzoy; and Bradford Salutatorian Maria Antonio.

From left: Inductees Kayla Palmer, Enqi Lin, Josiah Wysocki and Bryce Kelly.

From left: Inductees Briana Hayes, Aislinn Klemann, Isaac McIlroy.

From left: Inductees Shannon Ervay, Maria Brubaker, Nancy Jackson.

From left: Inductees Travis Hill, Enkang Lin, Aidan DiGregorio.

13 join WGHS National Honor Society

WATKINS GLEN, June 5, 2019 -- Thirteen Watkins Glen High School students were inducted Tuesday evening into the school's chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony in the Watkins Glen Elementary School auditorium.

Joining the Society were Kayla Palmer, Enqi Lin, Josiah Wysocki, Bryce Kelly, Briana Hayes, Aislinn Klemann, Isaac McIlroy, Shannon Ervay, Maria Brubaker, Nancy Jackson, Travis Hill, Enkang Lin and Aidan DiGregorio.

Each was introduced in a speech by an existing NHS member. The speeches were preceded by a candle-lighting ceremony, the four candles lit representing Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character. The entire ceremony was overseen by the chapter president, Kathleen Clifford.

After the introductory speeches, the inductees marched from the rear of the auditorium to the stage, where they were administered the NHS Oath.

Existing members include Sara Benedict Augustine, Wrett Brower, Wyatt Brower, Scott Brubaker, Peighton Cervoni, Joe Chedzoy, Ellie Clarkson, Kathleen Clifford, Haley Dean, Abigail Donelson, Isabella Fazzary, Collin Gaylord, Allie Gibson, Matthew Herold, Danielle Leszyk, Dylan Markley, Hannah Morse, Kishan Patel, Gabe Planty, H Nathaniel Rose, Emilee Stephani, Kai Sutterby, Sarah Swinnerton, Casen Weeden, Annika Wickham and Grace Wickham.

Photo in text: Kathleen Clifford

Plants available

Students in the Odessa-Montour CDOS (Career Development and Occupational Studies) classroom, as part of their work-based learning requirements, planted seeds in order to grow plants to sell for the classroom club.

They will be "selling" plants (donations are accepted) at the O-M bus garage on Mondays through Wednesdays (11:45 a.m.-2:15 p.m., weather permitting) or at the high school from 8:45 a.m.-1:20 p.m. Monday through Friday until the plants are gone. There are a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers.

The sales end June 12.

Grace Wickham wins church scholarship

HECTOR, May 24, 2019 -- Watkins Glen High School senior Grace Wickham has been named recipient of the Hector Presbyterian Church's annual Memorial Fund Scholarship.

She will be awarded the $1,500 upon completon of her first semester of college. She will be studying communications and political science at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida.

This is the 17th year in which the Memorial Fund Committee has offered scholarships to qualified students from the Odessa-Montour, South Seneca, Trumansburg and Watkins Glen high schools.

The church welcomes contributions to the fund. Donations may be sent to Hector Presbyterian Church, Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 96, Hector NY 14841.

BOCES students win at Conservation event

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, May 24, 2019 -- Students from the GST BOCES Bush Education Center Conservation program competed against other students from across the state at the New York State Conservation Competition at SUNY Cobleskill on May 16.

More than 300 students from 16 Conservation programs participated in the event. Results included the following:

1st place, Bulldozer Log Roll: Griffin Bennett (Horseheads)
1st place, Bulldozer Backfill: Wesley Radford (Horseheads)
1 st place, Tree Identification: Wesley Radford (Horseheads)
1st place, Mini Excavator: Jared Strope (Horseheads)
2nd place, Land Judging (Soil): Ben Mathews (Odessa-Montour)
3rd place, Bulldozer Trenching: Nick Gunderman (Elmira)
4th place, Tree Climbing: Josh Cutler (Horseheads)
4th place, Land Judging (Soil): Chris Wallace (Elmira)
5th place, Compass and Pace: Josh Cutler (Horseheads)

Woodman's Competition:
2nd place, Peavey Log Roll Team: Nick Gunderman (Elmira) and Brock Pierce (Elmira)
3rd place, Female Pulp Throw: Dez Minnier (Odessa-Montour)
5th place, Female Pulp Throw: Casey Bush (Elmira)

O-M's Foote honored as Student of Month

Special to
The Odessa File

ODESSA, May 23, 2019 -- Isabel Foote, an Odessa-Montour High School senior in the Cosmetology program, has been selected as a Career and Technical Education Program Student of the Month at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

Foote was the April honoree, while Takota Chilson, a Spencer-Van Etten senior in the Diesel Equipment Technology, Maintenance and Repair program, is the May selection.

“Isabel has an excellent work ethic and is always looking out for others,” said Instructor Kara Sheehan. “She has participated every time we’ve offered free services to patients during events at the Faulk Cancer Center.” Foote plans to attend Eastern Gateway Community College online while working at Infinity Hair Salon in Watkins Glen.

“Takota is focused and driven,” said Instructor Raphael Tanzini. “He is honest and dependable and sets a great example for the class.” Chilson hopes to enlist in the United States Army in the future.

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Isabel Foote (holding certificate), a senior in the Cosmetology program, accepts the Student of the Month award from Instructor Kara Sheehan (left) and
CTE Assistant Principal Erin Schiavone. (Photo provided)

Robotics open house and recruitment set

Special to
The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 19, 2019 -- Schuyler County’s youth robotics team, Mechanical Meltdown, will be hosting an Open House on Thursday, May 30 from 5-8 p.m. at its meeting location at 435 S. Franklin St. in Watkins Glen.

The community is invited to see demonstrations, learn more about what the team offers area youth, and to hear about its recent trip to the World Championship in Detroit.

The team is accepting applications for the 2019-2020 season now through Monday, June 3 at noon. Interviews and tryouts will be held June 4-5 to select up to six youths to join the team. It welcomes students in grades 7-12 attending any school in the region or home-schooled.

The program allows students to explore their interests in various STEM- and business-related careers, as they design, build, and program a robot to compete with other FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) teams. Youth will have opportunities to develop skills in technical areas like engineering, programming, CAD, technical documentation, Microsoft Office applications, and 3D printing, as well as general life skills such as teamwork, problem solving, leadership, and marketing.

Mechanical Meltdown is part of FLARE -- Finger Lakes Area Robotics Education. The group meets regularly in Watkins Glen. For more information, call Kathy at (607) 546-2207 or e-mail ftcflare@gmail.com

BOCES taps Houseknecht for award

Special to
The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, May 16, 2019 -- Dylan Houseknecht, an Odessa-Montour High School senior in the Criminal Justice program, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Program Student of the Month for March at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

“Dylan is polite, respectful and always willing to help a peer,” said Instructor Tammy Lotocky. “He is well-respected and trusted by staff and peers. His attendance is outstanding and his grades are excellent.”

Houseknecht plans to attend SUNY Cortland to study criminology after graduation. The New York State Divison 2 wrestling champion also will wrestle and play football at Cortland.

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Dylan Houseknecht, a senior in the Criminal Justice program, accepts the Student of the Month award. From left: Teacher Aide Eileen Doppel, Houseknecht, Instructor Tammy Lotocky and CTE Assistant Principal Erin Schiavone. (Photo provided)

WGHS awards presented at assembly

WATKINS GLEN, May 9, 2019 -- The following awards were presented Wednesday evening at a 9th-12th Grade Academic, Athletic & Top Ten Percent Recognition Ceremony for Watkins Glen High School students held in the school auditorium.

Valedictorian: Joseph Chedzoy
Salutatorian: Kathleen Clifford

Top Ten Percent (Weighted Cumulative for High School Career)
9th: Matthew Sandritter, Cameron Holland, Douglas DiGregorio, Ashlyn Karius, Kellie Memoli, Iris Rodriguez, Robin Zimba, Jade Scaptura and Gavin Bond.
10th: Kayla Palmer, Briana Hayes, Bryce Kelly, Dylan Morse, Timothy Clifford, Maria Brubaker, and Kelsey DeMillo.
11th: Collin Gaylord, Sarah Swinnerton, Travis Hill, Aidan DiGregorio, Josiah Wysocki, Haley Dean, Scott Brubaker, Elaine Majors.
12th: Joseph Chedzoy, Kathleen Clilfford, Kai Sutterby, Casen Weeden, H Nathaniel Rose, Kishan Patel, Emilee Stephani, Isabella Fazzary, Austin Voorheis.

Top Ten Percent (Unweighted for Current School Year)
9th: Matthew Sandritter, Cameron Holland, Ashlyn Karius, Douglas DiGregorio, Kellie Memoli, Iris Rodriguez, Gavin Bond, Jade Scaptura, Robin Zimba.
10th: Kayla Palmer, Bryce Kelly, Briana Hayes, Timothy Clifford, Dylan Morse, Maria Brubaker, Amanda Wilbur
11th: Collin Gaylord, Sarah Swinnerton, Enqi Lin, Travis Hill, Enkang Lin, Aidan DiGregorio, Adrienna Solomon, Kelsey Kernan, Josiah Wysocki.
12th: Joseph Chedzoy, Kishan Patel, Austin Voorheis, Danielle Leszyk, Kathleen Clifford, Braden Castellaneta, Abigail Donelson, Casen Weeden, Grace Wickham.

AP English Achievement Award: Kishan Patel

Bahns-Dugo Global History Regents Award: Sarah Swinnerton

Boys and Girls State Recognition Awards: Collin Gaylord, Isaac McIlroy, Sara Benedict-Augustine and Adrienna Solomon

Chemistry Regents Award: Collin Gaylord

Dugo-Bahns U.S. History Regents Award: Joseph Chedzoy, Jillian Kilcoyne and Kishan Patel

English Regents Award: Kathleen Clifford, Emilee Stephani, Kai Sutterby and Casen Weeden

FOWL Library Service Award: Kathleen Clifford

Gerald Loughlin Biology Regents Award (Living Environment): Kaitlin Asbury, Kelsey DeMillo and Heidi Gardner

Kate LaMoreaux Lover of Lit Award: Annika Wickham

Marie Fitzsimmons Student Humanitarian Award: Joseph Arcangeli

National Honor Society Awards:
--NHS Service Award: Kathleen Clifford
--NHS Leadership Award: Kathleen Clifford
--NHS Scholarship Award: Joseph Chedzoy
--NHS Character Award: Kathleen Clifford

Physics Regents Award: H Nathaniel Rose

Ruth Warner Math Awards: Gabe Planty and Colby Thurston

The Pulitzer Prize of Schuyler County:
Excellence in Scholastic Journalism: Annika Wickham

Rotary Students of the Month: September-Kai Sutterby, October-H Nathaniel Rose, November-Emilee Stephani, December-Austin Voorheis, January-Ashley Smith, February- Casen Weeden, March-Maggie Barrett, April-Kishan Patel, May-Kathleen Clifford, June-TBA

TIES Volunteer Awards: Shannon Ervay and Jordyn Barrett

Varsity Academic Marathon: Joseph Arcangeli, Wrett Brower, Wyatt Brower, Braden Castellaneta, Joseph Chedzoy, Kathleen Clifford, Clint Craven, Abigail Donelson, Isabella Fazzary, Allison Gibson, Danielle Leszyk, Jonathan Lokken, Dylan Markley, H Nathaniel Rose, Emilee Stephani, Kai Sutterby, Austin Voorheis, Casen Weeden

Alfred University Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering Award for Academic Excellence: Haley Dean

Clarkson University Achievement Award: Enkang Lin

Clarkson University Leadership Award: Peighton Cervoni

Elmira College Key Award: Collin Gaylord and Tristin Rose-Morley

Hobart and William Smith Colleges:
Finger Lakes Scholarship: Scott Brubaker, Elaine Majors, Haley Dean, Travis Hill, Josiah Wysocki, Aidan DiGregorio, Collin Gaylord, Enqi Lin, and Sarah Swinnerton

Keuka College George H. Ball Community Achievement Award: Scott Brubaker, Haley Dean, Garrett Gascon, Kelsey Kernan, Elaine Majors, and Mason Neira.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal: Sarah Swinnerton

Rochester Institute of Technology Junior Awards:
--Innovation & Creativity Award: Collin Gaylord and Enqi Lin
--Computing Medal and Scholarship Program: Travis Hill and Sarah Swinnerton

Sage Colleges Student Scholarship: Josiah Wysocki, Aidan DiGregorio, Collin Gaylord, Tristin Rose Morley, Olivia Stephani, Enqi Lin

University of Rochester:
Bausch & Lomb Science Honorary Award: Collin Gaylord
Fredrick Douglas & Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences & Humanities:
Travis Hill
George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Josiah Wysocki
Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology: Aidan DiGregorio

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award: Olivia Stephani and Enqi Lin

Ryan Pruitt Awareness 24 Achievement Award: Joseph Arcangeli

Athletic Service Award: Matthew Herold

Barb Hughey Physical Education Award: Joseph Arcangeli and Emilee Stephani

Coach Joseph J. Lemak, Sr. Award: Joseph Chedzoy and Danielle Leszyk

Dr. Arthur J. Jackson Award: Joseph Chedzoy and Kai Sutterby

Francis W. Blake Sportsmanship Awards: Joseph Arcangeli and Taylor Kelly

James Angelo, Sr. Basketball Award: Joseph Chedzoy

Melissa B Wilson Basketball Award: Taylor Kelly

Senecas Football Award: Casen Weeden

Track & Field Award: Kai Sutterby and Casen Weeden

T.J. O’Rourke Award: Hannah Morse

Water Safety Award: Jena Slater

Erin Gruwell talks with WGHS students at a luncheon meeting after the assemblies.

'Freedom Writers' teacher Erin Gruwell offers Watkins students inspiring stories

WATKINS GLEN, May 7, 2019 -- Erin Gruwell -- an award-winning teacher who inspired her students to chronicle their lives and problems 20 years ago in what became a collection of essays titled The Freedom Writers Diary that led to a 2007 movie, Freedom Writers -- offered inspiring stories at two assemblies Tuesday morning in the Watkins Glen High School auditorium.

Gruwell told stories about some of the students who contributed to the Diary -- subtitled "How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them" -- and to the movie, which starred Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank as Gruwell. She interspersed her talk with clips from the movie, its trailer, and a related documentary.

The first assembly was for 5th through 9th graders, and the second one was for 10th through 12th graders.

Gruwell, who distributed signed copies of The Freedom Writers Diary to each of a dozen students at a luncheon in the School Board meeting room that followed the assemblies, has also writen a memoir titled Teach with Your Heart: Lessons I Learned from the Freedom Writers, published about the time of the movie.

Her appearance at Watkins Glen followed one the night before at Corning Community College, part of that school's Education Summit designed to address a shrinking enrollment nationwide in teacher prep programs. Gruwell was the keynote speaker at the Summit.

On hand at the Tuesday luncheon at WGHS were officers of three school clubs: the National Honor Society, the Diversity Club and the Wellness Club. Various officers discussed with Gruwell their roles and those of their clubs.

Said Superintendent Greg Kelahan of Gruwell's visit -- part of a district Speaker Series: "She was an outstanding teacher" in California, where she "used Journal writing as a way out, an escape, a key to unlocking success" for her students. The Watkins student, he noted, "really appreciated" the visit.

Photos in text:

Top: Erin Gruwell with WGHS senior Joe Chedzoy at the luncheon that followed the assemblies.
Bottom: Gruwell shares a moment with senior Kathleen Clifford at the luncheon.

Erin Gruwell, standing right of center, met with officers of the school's National Honor Society, Diversity Club and Wellness Club in the School Baord meeting room.

Hospital Auxiliary offering scholarships

MONTOUR FALLS, April 13, 2019 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is offering scholarships to students who plan to enter the health care field.

$1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, and to hospital employees wishing to further their education in the health care field.

Applications may be found on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org. Applications may also be picked up at high school guidance offices, or the hospital’s Human Resources office -- located inside the Main Entrance of the hospital.

Applications must be postmarked by May 28, 2019.

For more information, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary member Alice Learn at (607) 594-3401.

Ambassadors named for Library Week

Special to
The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 28, 2019 -- To celebrate National Library Week 2019, April 7-13, Friends of the Watkins Library (FOWL) have selected Sue Baldwin and Joann Neal as community ambassadors.

Maggie Field, Watkins Glen High School Library Media Specialist, has chosen WGHS senior Kathleen Clifford as school district ambassador.

National Library Week is an annual celebration of the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians. All types of libraries -- school, public, academic and special -- participate. This year's theme is “Libraries = Strong Communities.” You can visit the American Library Association website for all the information about NLW at http://www.ala.org/

FOWL is an organization which supports the Watkins Glen Public Library. It sponsors Books Sandwiched In events, and helps finance seasonal plants and flowers, programs for adults and children, and unanticipated needs of the library.

When you see these ambassadors, you can ask them for information regarding membership in FOWL and how you can help in supporting the school and public libraries.

A FOWL membership form can also be found at the following website: http://www.watkinsglenlibrary.org, or go to the Watkins Glen Public Library and ask for a membership form.

*****

Photos in text:

Top: Library Week Ambassadors Sue Baldwin, left, and Joann Neal
Bottom: Library school district ambassador Kathleen Clifford (Photos provided)

WGHS Alumni unit offers scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 22, 2019 -- The Watkins Glen High School Alumni Association, Inc. is once again offering scholarships to deserving WGHS graduating students -- to be presented at the annual Alumni Banquet.

This year’s banquet will be Saturday, June 22 at the Watkins Glen Community Center. Social time will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the announcement of this year’s scholarship recipients and presentation of Distinguished Alumni awards. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m.

Interested WGHS seniors are invited to apply. Scholarship criteria and all necessary application documents are available at the association’s website -- www.watkinsglenalumni.org. Each applicant’s submission must be postmarked no later than May 1. The completed application with all criteria included should be mailed to:

WGHS Alumni Association
Attn: Scholarship Committee
301 12th Street
Watkins Glen, New York 14891

After the deadline, the scholarship awards committee will select eligible applicants to interview. Following the interview process, individuals will be selected by the association to receive the scholarships. Recipients will be notified in writing. Attendance at the annual Alumni Banquet is required.

Questions may be directed to Peggy Scott, association president, at peggsctt@yahoo.com or by telephone at 546-8268.

Since 2007, the association has awarded more than $53,250 to WGHS seniors at the Alumni Banquet. Last year five students were selected to receive awards that totaled $6,000.

WGHS student wins art competition award

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 20, 2019 -- Watkins Glen High School senior Ashlyn Karius recently received The Gold American Visions Medal in the 2019 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a national art and writing competition.

Karius was honored for her original drawing, The All Seeing Hands.

Karius’s drawing was one of 340,000 works of art and writing that were submitted to this year’s awards, which were judged by leaders in visual and literary arts for excellence in originality, technical skill and the emergence of a personal voice or vision.

Receiving this national medal places Karius within the top one percent of all submissions.

She was previously honored at the annual Scholastic Art Awards at the Arnot Art Museum in Elmira.

Illustration in text: Ashlyn Karius's The All Seeing Hands. (Provided)

Watkins Glen High School varsity basketball team members at El Rancho restaurant.

El Rancho celebrates the WGHS girls team

WATKINS GLEN, March 21, 2019 -- The owner of El Rancho Mexican Restaurant on Franklin Street provided dinner Wednesday to the Watkins Glen High School girls varsity basketball team in honor of the squad's runnerup finish in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association state championships.

The Senecas, who fell to Cambridge in the Class C final last Saturday, were provided tacos, chips, salsa, guacamole and beverage by Cynthia Ruiz, owner of El Rancho.

"She reached out to us," said Jackie Leszyk, mother of team member Danielle Leszyk. "She wanted to show her appreciation. What a wonderful gesture."

Every member of the team was present, seated on both sides of tables near the restaurant's north wall. And to cap off the meal, there was a cake -- with a photo of the team on top -- provided free of charge by Walmart.

*****

Photos in text:

Top: El Rancho owner Cynthia Ruitz, left, waits on members of the Watkins Glen girls varsity basketball team.

Bottom: Watkins Glen team members Adrienna Solomon, left, and Abby Gibson pose during the dinner party.

The team's celebratory cake, provided for the party by the Watkins Glen Walmart store.

Noah Brewster, left, as Sky Masterson and Rhys Stermer as Nathan Detroit.

'Guys and Dolls' ends 2-day run at O-M

ODESSA, March 17, 2019 -- The annual spring musical at Odessa-Montour High School this year -- performed Friday and Saturday, March 15-16 -- was "Guys and Dolls." A story on the play, including a cast list and photos from dress rehearsal, appear in a story below.

The photos here were provided by Sadye Halpin from an actual performance. The final of three such performances was Saturday night after Friday night and Saturday matinee presentations.

Photo in text: William Yeater as Nicely-Nicely Johnson performs a song in a key scene from "Guys and Doll." (Photos provided by Sadye Halpin)

A musical scene from "Guys and Dolls" with Miss Adelaide (Hannah Rosier) and her girls.

From left: Noah Brewster as Sky Masterson, Justin Andrews as Arvide Abernathy and Casey Underdown as Sarah Brown.

Sky Masterson (Noah Brewster) rolls the dice to save the souls of collected sinners in a key scene from "Guys and Dolls," to be presented Friday and Saturday at O-M.

Curtain to rise on 'Guys and Dolls' at O-M

ODESSA, March 12, 2019 -- Students at Odessa-Montour High School will present the classic musical "Guys and Dolls" on Friday and Saturday, March 15-16, in the school's Fetter-Brown Auditorium.

The play, sponsored by the O-M Fine Arts Boosters, is based on a story and characters created by Damon Runyon.

The curtain rises at 7 p.m. March 15 and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on March 16. General admission is $8, with students and senior citizens charged $5 and children 4 and under admitted free.

The cast includes:

--Noah Brewster as Sky Masterson
--Casey Underdown as Sarah Brown
--Rhys Stermer as Nathan Detroit
--Hannah Rosier as Miss Adelaide
--William Yeater as Nicely-Nicely Johnson
--Dylan Holton as Benny Southstreet
--Justin Andrews as Arvide Abernathy
--Tyler Carson as Big Jule
--Eliza Starkweather as Harry the Horse
--Molly Heichel as Angie the Ox
--Kaelyn Arnold as General Cartwright
--Robert Hess as Lt. Brannigan
--Shania Austin, Alexis Ayers, Kennedey Heichel, Allison Heichel, Jacy Knapp, and Cheianne Webster as the Hot Box dancers
--Sara Gardner, Taryn Hoyt, Marissa Marsh, Lilly Michal, Kaylea Simmons, and Madison Vogel in the Salvation Army Band
--And the Ensemble: Marisa Alton, Ryan Alton, Hannah Barr, Sarah Barr, Ben Campbell, Kasey Cooper, Dominick Elliott, Lillian Halpin, Bailey Hornbrook, and Violet Miranda-Learn.

*****

Photos in text:

Top: Sky Masterson (Noah Brewster) and his love interest Sarah Brown (Casey Underdown) in a scene from "Guys and Dolls."

Middle: Nicely-Nicely Johnson (William Yeater) belts out "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat."

Bottom: Nathan Detroit (Rhys Stermer) and his love interest Adelaide (Hannah Rosier).

Noah Brewster (playing Sky Masterson) and Kennedey Heichel perform a dance sequence in "Guys and Dolls."

Nathan Detroit (Rhys Stermer) is intimidated by Big Jule (Tyler Carson) in a scene from "Guys and Dolls," to be presented Friday and Saturday at Odessa-Montour High School

Honoring Dylan: From left at the O-M District Office Friday afternoon were Deputy Dustin Letteer, Sgt. Daniel Eberhardt, Dylan Houseknecht, Investigator Craig Bianco, Investigator Kevin Rumsey, and Officer/Dispatcher Darci Kasprzyk, secretary of the Schuyler County Deputy Sheriffs Association, who presented Dylan with a gift card.

Deputy Sheriffs Association honors Dylan

ODESSA, March 2, 2019 -- Members of the Schuyler County Deputy Sheriffs Association visited the Odessa-Montour School District office Friday afternoon to honor senior Dylan Houseknecht, presenting him with a surprise: a Visa gift card.

The visit was in honor of Dylan's victory at 285 pounds in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Wrestling Championships in Albany -- and the gift was given by people who learned to appreciate him first in the workplace.

Houseknecht, through a BOCES Criminal Justice program, until recently shadowed members of the Sheriff's Department, among other things riding in a patrol car.

"Your character speaks for itself," the Association President, Investigator Kevin Rumsey, told Dylan, adding that there are "big things for you in the future."

Also on hand were Dylan's wrestling coaches, Bill Lindsley and Dan Batchelder, along with School Superintendent Chris Wood.

Bush Center names Students of Month

ELMIRA, Feb. 9, 2019 -- Kayla Gokey, an Odessa-Montour High School senior in the Dental Assisting program, and Tyler Northrup, a Thomas A. Edison High School junior in the Welding and Metal Fabrication program, have been selected as the Career and Technical Education Program Students of the Month for December at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

“Kayla is a leader by her perserverance,” said Instructor Amy Limoncelli. “She proves every day that you can change and overcome obstacles. I can honestly say that I haven’t seen anyone so committed in all of my years of teaching.” Kayla plans to seek employment in an orthodontics office after graduation.

“Tyler shows up every day ready to work,” said Teaching Assistant Tom Batrowny. “He is always upfront and genuine and has a bright future.”

The Students of the Month are selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Kayla Gokey (holding certificate), a senior in the Dental Assisting program, accepts the Student of the Month award from (l-r) Teaching Assistant Lu Ann Semski, Instructor Amy Limoncelli and CTE Assistant Principal Erin Schiavone. (Photo provided)

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano is flanked by students who are members of the Mechanical Meltdown robotics club, with one of their robots displayed on the table. The group will compete soon at a Utica robotics event.

Ingenuity Night at WGHS kicks off initiative

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 7, 2019 -- The Watkins Glen Central School District kicked off its Ingenuity Initiative with a ribbon-cutting and open house Wednesday evening at the High School. It was touted as the Watkins Glen Ingenuity Night.

Parents and other community members were on hand in sizable numbers -- along with representatives from the state, county and village governments -- as the school opened nearly 20 classrooms and the auditorium to feature what school officials call "ingenuity in action."

This came under different headings, marked on signs above participating classrooms: Collaboration; Agility and Adaptability; Information Analysis; Critical Thinking and Problem Solving; Passion and Drive; Initiative and Entrepreneurship; Effective Oral and Written Communication Skills: Perseverance, Grit and Toleration of Failure; Confidence and Willingness to Take Calculated Risks; and Curiosity and Imagination.

For instance, in one room students, one at a time, gave extemporaneous one-minute talks on various subjects to show how they are learning timing, confidence and on-the-spot thinking. Another room featured ideas on how to create travel across Seneca Lake at roughly its midpoint, beyond traditional boats. Solutions included using helicopters, hovercrafts, a bridge or a tunnel. In another, students were dancing, and in another, they were trying to solve a puzzle on a board.

The Ingenuity Initiative, officials say, includes embedding college and career skills into the district’s curriculum with an eye toward ensuring that students graduate from the district ready to take on the challenges presented to them at work or in college.

It also encompasses the dreams and goals that almost all of us have, with creativity -- or the encouragement of creativity -- thrown in. That was a theme of a painting show put on in the auditorium by performance painter Tom Varano, who created (very quickly) portraits of Walt Disney and Thomas Edison -- two men well known for their creativity. Disney, said Varano, was actually fired from his first job for not being creative enough.

Speakers before a celebratory ribbon-cutting in the lobby outside the auditorium included Superintendent Greg Kelahan, School Board President Gloria Brubaker, State Senator Tom O'Mara, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, businessman Matt Sharp, and County Administrator Tim O'Hearn.

Each touted the need to raise the level of education to meet the needs of a changing world and to enhance the economic outlook for the community in the future. "As education goes, so goes our economy," said one speaker.

Photos in text:

Top: State Senator Tom O'Mara addresses crowd that turned out for Ingenuity Night.
Middle: Performance painter Tom Varano creates a portrait of Thomas Edison.
Bottom: A display in one of the classrooms suggested construction of an east-west tunnel under Seneca Lake at roughly its midpoint.

A student ponders a challenging puzzle on a board in one of the program's classrooms. (Yes, it can be solved.)

Left: Superintendent Greg Kelahan served as emcee. Right: Logan DeBolt performs a musical number in one of the nearly 20 classrooms open for the evening.

School Baord President Gloria Brubaker, in white near left, cuts the ceremonial ribbon opening the hallway leading to classrooms featured in Wednesday's program.

From left: Watkins Glen Village Trustee (and mayoral candidate) Laurie DeNardo, Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development Executive Director Judy Cherry, County Administrator Tim O'Hearn and State Senator Tom O'Mara watch Tom Varano's performance-painting show.

Glen students' art to be on display in Elmira

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Jan. 28, 2019 -- Art created by various Watkins Glen High School students will be on display in Elmira from Tuesday, Jan. 29 through March 2.

The 2019 Scholastic Art Winners' work -- from area schools including WGHS -- will be on display in the Arnot Art Museum on Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays from 12 noon-5 p.m. Gallery spaces are closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays.

Examples of the display art are presented here, by Joe Arcangeli (above), Ashlyn Karius (right) and Grace Wickham (below).

The Arnot Art Museum also displays a permanent collection of 17th-19th Century European paintings and 19th and 20th Century American art. Temporary exhibitions include works from around the world.

At right: The Nuclear Shadow, by Ashlyn Karius.

CCC President finalists to meet with public

Special to The Odessa File

CORNING, Jan. 24, 2019 -- The SUNY Corning Community College Regional Board of Trustees has announced the scheduled visits for the three finalists for the presidency of SUNY Corning Community College (CCC).

The person selected will succeed Dr. Katherine P. Douglas, who will be retiring on June 30.

“We recruited a highly competitive pool of candidates,” said Regional Board of Trustees Chair Carl Blowers. “We have developed a thoughtful and highly deliberate process to select the very best candidate for SUNY Corning Community College’s seventh president. I encourage members of the community to meet the candidates and participate in the process.”

The SUNY Corning Community College presidential finalists and their schedules are as follows:

Visiting campus on January 28, 2019:

Keith McLaughlin, Ph.D., is Provost of Morton College in Cicero, IL. He previously served as Vice President of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness at Morton College. Dr. McLaughlin earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at Austin; a Master of Science in Management from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY; a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from SUNY Albany; and an Associate in Math/Science from SUNY Corning Community College.

Visiting campus on January 29, 2019:

Cedric Howard, Ed.D., is Vice President of Enrollment and Student Services at State University of New York at Fredonia. He previously served as Vice Chancellor of Student and Enrollment Services at The University of Washington, Tacoma. Dr. Howard earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management from Capella University; a Master of Education in Educational Administration from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga; and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Georgia College and State University, in Milledgeville.

Visiting campus on January 30, 2019:

William Mullaney, Ph.D., is Vice President of Academic Affairs at Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. He previously served as Assistant to the Executive Vice Chancellor at the Maricopa Community Colleges District Office in Tempe, AZ. Dr. Mullaney earned a Doctor of Philosophy in English from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA; a Master of Arts in Literature from the University of California, San Diego; and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia, in Charlottesville.

Each presidential finalist will participate in an open forum on the dates listed above and at the following locations and times.

8:30 a.m.: Academic Workforce & Development Center -- ELM 301, at 318 Madison Ave., Elmira.

10:00 a.m.: Airport Corporate Park -- ACP 100 at 360 Daniel Zenker Drive, Horseheads.

11:30 a.m.: Health Education Center -- HEC 110, at 132 Denison Parkway East, Corning.

2:00 p.m.: Main Campus -- Hanley -- LIB 102, at 1 Academic Drive, Corning.

All forums are open to all faculty, administrators, staff, students, and the general public. There will be a brief introduction of each candidate, followed by a question-and-answer session. Feedback forms will be given to all who attend, and the completed forms will be collected at the end of each forum and given to the Regional Board of Trustees for review.

Photos in text: From the top: Keith McLaughlin, Cedric Howard and William Mullaney. (Photos provided)

Social media holds a powerful potential
for enhancing our local communities

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by Watkins Glen High School senior Kathleen Clifford, who is interning with this website. It is one of a series of columns she is writing.

By Kathleen Clifford

Social media can be an important tool in local communities.

With access to social media, you can easily share your opinion and repost the opinions of others, from celebrities to your friends to politicians. While social media platforms can simply be used for mindless entertainment, they have the potential to be used for a much deeper purpose than that. The key word, however, is potential.

Overwhelmingly, the number of people most active in social media are younger individuals, in their teens and twenties. 88% of people aged 18-29 in the U.S. indicate that they use some type of social media, and 78% of individuals aged 30 to 49 (Smith, Aaron, and Monica Anderson). However, if you look at past election cycles, these same individuals who are incredibly involved on Instagram and Twitter are the ones who are not turning out to vote, not getting involved politically. In the 2016 Presidential election, only 46.1% of 18-29 year olds voted, and only 58.7% of 30-44 year olds voted (Tyson, Alec). Essentially, what the numbers tell us is that social media is not reaching its true potential of getting individuals involved politically or in electoral activities. It is being used primarily for entertainment and networking. But why not strive to reach the full potential of the powerful tool that has been placed in our hands?

To reach that potential, there are specific things that need to be addressed. For instance, there is the theory that social media's impact might be restrained by the illusion that it provides individuals the illusion that they are getting involved when they actually are not. The idea is that while they can share an image or an event and feel as if they are giving their attention, they are not actually giving their time and going to that event. (They can also share or post things that support their opinions, without taking the time to make sure that those things are factually accurate.)

So how can social media be used in a way that bypasses some of the negatives? One way would be through raising awareness about events. Rather than just talking about an issue that the event centers around, share information about the event itself to raise attendance. This doesn’t have to be political events; it can be fundraising events for charities, or events that support local businesses.

Social media platforms are not only for politics or major elections. They should be used as an outreach tool, especially in local communities. These platforms are free for users to engage, and the audience is already there. This is a tool that could prove incredibly valuable on a local front by raising community engagement.

Community engagement is what small towns and counties run on. Organizations within the community such as the SPCA or the public library are filled with volunteers who help provide such resources. By advertising the need for more volunteers in a place where younger generations already have a presence could be the spark communities need to increase involvement. Many things in our community would not be possible without volunteers -- at the organizations listed above and at others such as the Cardboard Boat Regatta or Movies on the Lake. Attendance at these events could also be bolstered as the word about them is spread further.

Why target younger generations? Because the youth are the future. These are the people who will be filling jobs, running for office, and eventually the main source of volunteers in smaller communities as others who once played a big part begin to retire.

In more rural areas that have less money available, the fact that social media accounts are free is even more important, because money is not available to run advertising campaigns for every small job that needs to be filled. Smaller organizations are where community members see the effects in their day-to-day lives.

But how can the social media movement push into small towns? The answer is that it is already there; it just needs to be utilized. Youth in Watkins Glen already have Instagram and Twitter accounts, but it is those responsible for finding volunteers or hiring that could be helped by learning to use social media in a way that benefits them and their businesses. If small organizations and local community resources are able to create accounts, their messages and announcements can be spread throughout the community. The key is awareness. Youth and adults alike who are willing to get involved need to follow such accounts -- need to be aware, for starters, that they exist. If the entire community begins to recognize the power that social media has to advertise events or positions, then a following can be created for these accounts, allowing for frequent updates and increased awareness. That would be beneficial to the community overall.

While it's a tool right at our fingertips, we are only beginning to recognize the potential social media has. Helping to educate individuals and stoke their political involvement (even if simply voting), will help a community increase interest and participation.

Social media already exists, but the way it is used needs to be altered, turning it into a community force rather than just mindless entertainment.

Smith, Aaron, and Monica Anderson. “Social Media Use 2018: Demographics and Statistics." Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech, Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech, 19 Sept. 2018, www.pewinternet.org/2018/03/01/social-media-use-in-2018/.

Tyson, Alec. “The 2018 Midterm Vote: Divisions by Race, Gender, Education." Pew Research Center, Pew Research Center, 8 Nov. 2018, www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/11/08/the-2018-midterm-vote-divisions-by-race-gender-education/

Photo in text: Kathleen Clifford

WGHS plans 'Ingenuity Night' on Feb. 6

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 18, 2019 -- The Watkins Glen Central School District will kick off its Ingenuity Initiative with an event planned for 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 6 at the High School.

School officials say parents and community members are invited to attend to learn more about the initiative and to see "ingenuity in action" in nearly 20 district classrooms.

Attendees will check in at the High School auditorium lobby, then follow this schedule for the evening:

6:00-6:15 p.m.: Opening remarks in the HS auditorium lobby
6:15-7:45 p.m.: Presentations, activities and games in HS classrooms
7:45 p.m.: Ingenuity prizes given to participants

Several local government leaders also have been invited to attend.

The Ingenuity Initiative includes embedding college and career skills into the district’s curriculum, including:

--Critical thinking and problem solving
--Collaboration
--Agility and adaptability
--Initiative and entrepreneurship
--Analysis of information
--Effective oral and written communication skills
--Curiosity and imagination
--Perseverance, grit and toleration of failure
--Confidence/willingness to take calculated risks
--Passion and drive

The overall goal, officials say, is to ensure that students graduate from the district ready to take on the challenges presented to them at work or in college

Robinson makes St. John Fisher Dean's List

ROCHESTER, Jan. 9, 2019 -- Nakiaha Robinson, daughter of Frank and Polly Garrison of Odessa and a 2018 graduate of Odessa-Montour High School, has been named to the Fall 2018 Dean's List at St. John Fisher College in Rochester.

To be eligible for the Dean's List at St. John Fisher, a student must have attained at least a 3.5 grade-point average for the semester.

The 7th-8th Grade Chorus opened the concert with three selections.

WGHS holds its annual winter concert

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 19, 2018 -- The annual Watkins Glen High School Winter Concert drew a large crowd Tuesday night to the school auditorium, where choruses and bands from the 7th through 12th grades performed.

The musical selections included three each from the 7th-8th Grade Chorus, the 7th-8th Grade Concert Band, the High School Chorus and the High School Concert Band, and four apiece from the Treble Choir (consisting of nine students) and the Jazz Band.

Photo in text: The Treble Choir performs.

CCC trustees trim presidency list to 3

Special to The Odessa File

iCORNING, Dec. 17, 2018 -- The SUNY Corning Community College Regional Board of Trustees has selected three finalists for the presidency of CCC, stating they recruited "a highly competitive pool of candidates," and that "the finalists were selected from a large and outstanding candidate pool."

The person who is ultimately picked will succeed Dr. Katherine P. Douglas, who has announced her decision to retire from the post on June 30, 2019.

The candidates will participate in open forums. The community will be invited to attend the open forums, which are expected to be held in late January. There will be a brief introduction of each candidate, followed by a question-and-answer session.

The SUNY Corning Community College presidential finalists are (in alphabetical order):

Cedric Howard, Ed.D., is Vice President of Enrollment and Student Services at State University of New York at Fredonia. He previously served as Vice Chancellor of Student and Enrollment Services at The University of Washington, Tacoma. Dr. Howard earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management from Capella University; a Master of Education in Educational Administration from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga; and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Georgia College and State University, in Milledgeville.

Keith McLaughlin, Ph.D., is Provost of Morton College in Cicero, IL. He previously served as Vice President of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness at Morton College. Dr. McLaughlin earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at Austin; a Master of Science in Management from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY; a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from SUNY Albany; and an Associate in Math/Science from SUNY Corning Community College.

William Mullaney, Ph.D., is Vice President of Academic Affairs at Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. He previously served as Assistant to the Executive Vice Chancellor at the Maricopa Community Colleges District Office in Tempe, AZ. Dr. Mullaney earned a Doctor of Philosophy in English from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA; a Master of Arts in Literature from the University of California, San Diego; and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia, in Charlottesville.

Photo in text: CCC President Dr. Katherine P. Douglas. (File photo)

STEM Academy honors O-M sophomore

Special to
The Odessa File

CORNING, Dec. 3, 2018 -- Damion Rhodehouse, a Chapter 2 (10th grade) student from the Odessa-Montour Central School District, has been selected as the Student of the Month for October at the Greater Southern Tier STEM Academy.

“Damion is a mature and well-rounded individual,” said Melissa Houck, teacher. “He works well on any team and is a great leader. He strives for accuracy and excellence and leads others to do the same.”

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of STEM Academy staff based on nominations.

The Greater Southern Tier STEM Academy is a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH). P-TECH is a new model for secondary education that brings together the best elements of high school, college and the professional world. Students take the lead role in their learning, choosing pathways to their careers and taking college-level, credit-bearing courses from their first year.

Photo in text: Damion Rhodehouse (right) was presented with the Student of the Month award by STEM Academy Principal Rob Sherburne. (Photo provided)

Parents Danielle Matthews, left, and Angela Cleveland address the School Board.

Kelahan on suggestion of Special Ed shutdown: 'Not true by any stretch'

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 20, 2018 -- Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan has firmly denied a suggestion that the school district is planning to jettison its Special Education program by sending the students to other facilities, such as BOCES.

"Absolutely not!!" he responded to a question asking for comment on remarks by the parent of a special needs student at Monday's School Board meeting.

The parent, Danielle Matthews -- noting that this has been "a chaotic year" in Special Ed -- said that "my first concern is there is a misunderstanding of what parents are really worried about. I believe the concern is that the district is trying to dissolve the Special Ed Department .... By doing this, our kids would be forced to move to other facilities, such as BOCES."

While such a move might prove cost effective, she said, "the long-term effects on our community would be devastating. If we move these individuals out of our community, when they return they will be unfamiliar with the area; it will be harder to get a job. Essentially they will have already been shunned from a community that they may spend the rest of their lives in."

The School Board, which by policy does not engage in debate during public discussions, did not respond.

But Kelahan, later that evening, did -- answering a text message asking if Special Ed elimination was the board's intent.

"Absolutely not!!" he responded. "Philosophically, ethically, educationally and economically unsound ... just not true by any stretch. Where in the world would that come from?!?!"

Board member Mark Franzese, in an email soon afterward to The Odessa File, added this: "There was a lot of misinformation spoken by those two parents tonight. Please seek out clarification from Greg. Totally false that we want to send all of our Special Ed students to BOCES."

The reference to two parents included Angela Cleveland, the mother of a special needs child. She spoke before Matthews, saying "Special Ed here is a disaster" and that "morale is at an all-time low. Students and parents lack trust in the administration to really act in the best interest of our children."

Open Letter from the Watkins Glen Board of Education to the school community

To the School Community:

As Board of Education members we take the role of educational advocate very seriously. After listening to feedback provided by staff members and community members, we feel it is important to clarify some misconceptions that may exist regarding our school. We are committed to regular, clear, and accurate communication with our community and staff, and our administration welcomes any feedback that will keep us in the right direction. This letter is evidence of our commitment to open communication. Watkins Glen Schools provide a safe and supportive learning environment for our students and we are proud of our accomplishments. Still, there is opportunity for improvement and we are excited about the work that, when completed, will ensure success for all of our students.

Change can be hard, we understand this. To become the excellent school district that we know we can be requires us to create a vision, establish a plan, and provide the supports for our students and staff that are needed to achieve our goals. We can do this! The “Ingenuity Initiative” that we developed last year established the goals for our district. These are multi-year goals -- we do not expect to accomplish them overnight, but we must start on our path toward improvement. We are asking our community to think about who we are and what Watkins Glen Central School provides.

Several of our goals relate to developing partnerships with area businesses and colleges, increasing opportunities for experiences outside of the school setting such as internships and apprenticeships, and providing our students with the skills necessary to succeed in the career field of their choice. Not every student will go to college as part of career preparation, and we understand that not every career requires college preparation. All careers are worthwhile and important -- we do not think some careers are more important than others. Our goal is to provide as many experiences as possible so that students have options. Career opportunities will continue to change and we want our graduates to be in a position to adapt to the rapidly changing job market. Our goals are not about having students pick either college or a career after high school, our goals are about preparing our students to adapt and succeed. We believe it’s important that our students make choices that make the most sense for themselves. That being said, we would like to dispel the rumor that we are “getting rid of BOCES.” We would never be able to offer some programs on our campus that BOCES can provide quite successfully to our students. We have discussed how best to fully utilize our new STEM Center to make more options for students -- not fewer.

We are committed to supporting all of our students -- those that learn quickly and those that require additional help. All of our students deserve the best programs that we can offer. Our staff works hard every day to plan and provide instruction appropriate for each child’s individual needs, including students with special learning needs. Sometimes what is provided for our students doesn’t work, but we always try to improve. We make changes as we try to find what works best for each student. We listened to the concerns shared with us and followed up in regards to our special education program. We have asked our administrative team to review staffing and see that all students’ needs are met. We currently have 144 students with IEPs. We have 15 special education teachers working with the general education teachers to support the learning needs of students. We also have 16 teacher aides, 20 teaching assistants, and 22 monitors to provide additional support.

Several years ago we closed the middle school building and consolidated our school onto one campus. We knew then that, due to the consolidation of schools and our shrinking student population, we would need to reduce our staff size. In fact, our former superintendent often told the board that we needed to start thinking about right-sizing this organization. Ten years ago we enrolled nearly 1,300 students compared to the current 1,085. We lost about 16% of our school population but had gained staff members. Until this year we had many more staff members than we had job responsibilities. That is why we did not increase the expenditure budget and why the school tax levy was reduced. Rather than laying off staff members, we have done our best to absorb positions as people retire and seek other opportunities.

We ask for your continued support and partnership as we evolve and reach our goals. We, as the Board of Education, are committed to providing the supports necessary to move our district toward excellence. This requires clear vision, unwavering dedication to our goals, and open communication. This is our promise to you.

Sincerely, the Watkins Glen Board of Education:

Gloria Brubaker, President
Mark Franzese, Vice President
Kris Clarkson
Kristin Hazlitt
Kelly McCarthy
Barbara Schimizzi
Tracey VanSkiver

New method for Youth Political Activism

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by Watkins Glen High School senior Kathleen Clifford, who is interning with this website. It is one of a series of columns she is writing.

By Kathleen Clifford

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Oct. 8, 2018 -- If you go to any of the various state parks in the summer months, the ice cream shops, or restaurants, chances are you will see teenagers. Many of these teenagers are not there for a day off or a night out like yourself. Instead they are working. Why do teenagers work? To make money. What do teenagers do with money? Spend it!

Teenagers are a major market for many businesses and corporations, as they spend significant amounts of money, and can work and begin legally making money in New York State at age 14. Local businesses as well as international companies such as Nike all benefit from the money that teenagers spend on their products.

What is the goal for many teenagers when they give their money to a business in exchange for a product or a service? Their goal is to receive that product or service. But what if teenagers changed their method of consumerism in order to expand that goal? What if the new goal was to receive the product while supporting a cause or ideology that they believed in?

Teenagers have the ability to use their discretionary spending to influence corporations. On average, if you assume that teenagers are working 10 hours a week for 10 weeks over the summer at minimum wage, then they have at least $1,000 each of disposable income. They spend this money on various things, and in many cases, they are supporting major companies, and these companies do have ties to politics -- whether with political issues, such as Nike using Colin Kaepernick as part of the face of the 30th anniversary “Just Do It” campaign, or by supporting various politicians through donations as they run for office (1.) An example of these companies: Apple, historically donating to Democrats running for office.

Teenagers who are spending their money can have a significant impact and allow their political opinions to be heard in two ways: boycotting or buycotting. Boycotting would be not buying a product because of a decision that the company that manufactures the product is making. For example, David Hogg, who was a student enrolled at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida during the shooting that claimed 17 lives, was using the social media hashtag #BoycottNRA. He was calling for companies to sever ties with the NRA, and a boycott of the NRA (2). However, when people boycott a product, they are not only denying a company their money, they are also denying themselves of that product. Thus, the option of buycotting. When someone buycotts, they are buying a product from a company because they believe in the company's message and product, and it is more of a mutually beneficial arrangement. Boycotting is a form of negative reinforcement, while buycotting is a form of positive reinforcement. Teenagers have the ability to do both, and therefore allow their voices to be heard.

Although one teenager doing this may not have a major impact, what if all teenagers practiced conscientious consumerism? Teenagers (ages 13-18) spend an average of about 9 hours a day on entertainment media use, according to a study that Common Sense Media published. Over an hour of that time is spent using social media (3). What if instead, they were researching what political affiliations Netflix had before they paid their monthly bill, or investigating what country the clothes that they were wearing were made in? What if instead of sharing memes or selfies, they shared information and worked together using hashtags such as #BoycottNRA? A large difference could be made, especially considering that according to a U.S. Census, there are 17 million teenagers ages 14-17 in this country. Youth do have the power to make a difference, and if made aware of their buying power, they could have the ability to have major political sway, despite not even being old enough to vote.

1. Franck, Thomas. “Nike's Kaepernick Campaign 'a Stroke of Genius,' Says Analyst, Upgrading Stock to Buy." CNBC, CNBC, 11 Sept. 2018, www.cnbc.com/2018/09/11/nikes-kaepernick-ad-campaign-a-stroke-of-genius-analyst-ups-stock.html.

2. Sanders, Linley. “FedEx Finally Responded to Calls for NRA Boycott, but Won't End Their Discount Program." Teen Vogue, TeenVogue.com, www.teenvogue.com/story/parkland-survivors-nra-boycott-brands-finally-cutting-ties.

3. Shapiro, Jordan. “Teenagers In The U.S. Spend About Nine Hours A Day In Front Of A Screen." Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 3 Nov. 2015, www.forbes.com/sites/jordanshapiro/2015/11/03/teenagers-in-the-u-s-spend-about-nine-hours-a-day-in-front-of-a-screen/#1218127ca7c9.

Water aerobics classes offered at Odessa

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Oct. 8, 2018 -- The Odessa-Montour School District is again offering water classes, starting Thursday, Nov. 1 and Monday, Nov. 5.

All classes are subject to a minium enrollment of eight.

There are six Monday sessions and seven Thursday sessions, each for one hour, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the school pool.

If interested, call BOCES at 739-4296 soon.

Local teens learn skills to combat drug use

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Aug. 2, 2018 -- Representatives from the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs (SCCUDD) recently returned from Orlando, Florida where they joined nearly 2,000 substance use prevention and treatment specialists from around the world for CADCA’s (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America) 17th annula Mid-Year Training Institute.

The week-long training, held at the Gaylord Palms, taught participants how to address one of our nation’s biggest public health challenges: drug use. CADCA’s Mid-Year Training Institute is a one-of-a-kind intensive training opportunity, offering more than 95 ninety-minute and half-day courses geared toward helping participants find solutions to their community’s toughest substance use problems.

SCCUDD said two of the coalition’s youth members participated in CADCA’s Youth Leadership training at the event to help them become strong community leaders and change agents.

“I enjoyed meeting youth from all over the country and hearing about the issues in their communities,” said Aidan Thurston, a local ninth grader who attended the training.

 SCCUDD was formed in response to the Schuyler County Public Health Department’s Community Health Assessment showing concerning youth outcomes. Part of this Assessment included a public opinion survey that showed the number one health concern of Schuyler County residents was the use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. The mission of SCCUDD is to prevent, reduce and delay the onset of substance use among Schuyler County youth by collaborating with community partners, promoting prevention education and substance-free activities and implementing environmental strategies.

SCCUDD’s vision is a connected community where youth have education, resources, and drug-free options to help their journey to become happy, healthy adults. For more information, or to become involved with SCCUDD, visit SCCUDD online at www.schuylercounty.us/sccudd, or follow SCCUDD on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo in text: SCCUDD representatives Aidan Thurston, left, and Gabriel Grover at the CADCA Mid-Year Training Institute in Orlando, Florida. (Photo provided)

Why schools need to educate their
students on becoming involved citizens

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by Watkins Glen High School senior Kathleen Clifford, who is interning with this website. It is an outgrowth of her recent attendance at the Empire Girls State program at SUNY Brockport.

By Kathleen Clifford

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 13, 2018 -- Last week, another Watkins Glen High School student and I were given the opportunity to attend Empire Girls State. This week-long leadership conference, run by the American Legion Auxiliary, gives female rising seniors the opportunity to learn about politics and the government.

The program took place at SUNY Brockport, and was attended by about 360 girls. The girls were separated into 11 counties, as well as two political parties, and spent the week running for office and writing bills about their fictional states. Empire Girls State gives these girls the opportunity to learn about how the government works, and gain the hands-on experience of running a mock government that mirrors the government of New York State and the United States. In my time there I learned a lot about our government, but I also realized how much I didn’t know before I went, and I was not alone in this realization.

Educating youth about the way the government currently functions is frequently absent from school curricula. History classes take priority from a young age, and while they describe the structure of our government, they do not educate youth on current events. Youth are expected to be educated by their parents or keep up on current events by themselves, rather than being taught in school. Because of this, not all youth are receiving an equal education regarding current events, political affairs, and international events.

This needs to change. Possibly the reason that many schools would find it difficult to teach a class on current events is simply this: bias in our heated, politically divisive time. However, there are two readily available solutions to this. One is a student-led class, in which a teacher would not be giving students his or her personal opinion; a statement of facts would be its basis. Another option would be to give an instructional class on government structure and how to find information on current events, directing students to credible sources.

A common phrase is that "today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders." In order for the leaders of our country to help our country progress, those youths need to be educated.Beyond that, while it is important to have educated leaders, in a democratic form of government it is also important to have an educated population. High schools are responsible for the most basic form of education of the citizens, and they should be educating them in how to remain educated, rather than teaching simple rote facts -- facts that are forgotten as soon as the student finishes the final exam.

Politics and current events are not something that you can learn once and never have to follow up. Current events are just that -- current. They require constant monitoring, but the monitoring needs to be done correctly. Students need to learn early which websites and sources are reliable, and how to separate opinion and bias from facts in order to form their own opinions, learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, and embrace the challenges and rewards that citizenship offers. As students learn these skills, they will increase their odds of becoming active members of the U.S. -- whether through the most basic level of voting or through something more.

In order for the youth of the United States to become good and involved citizens, they need to be educated on how to get involved and stay informed. By implementing such a curriculum in schools across the nation, the U.S. could create a more educated population, and begin to solve problems such as low voter turnout among the younger generations.

And with more citizens getting involved, maybe ... just maybe ... the result would be a more unified country.

Photo in text: Kathleen Clifford

Ladies Club awards scholarships to 3

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, July 2, 2018 -- The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club has awarded scholarships of $150 each to three 2018 Schuyler County high school graduates: Nicole Moffe of Bradford Central School, Jacob Lyon of Odessa-Montour, and Amanda Armstrong of Watkins Glen..

Moffe, the club said, "has made great strides in her education and has done very well with her College Composition Class." She plans on attending Corning Community College with a major in Early Education.

Lyon, it said, "has greatly improved his grades and also is involved in many activities." He plans on entering Corning Community College with an undeclared major.

Armstrong, it added, "has improved her grades since 9th grade and is very strong academically." She plans on entering SUNY Brockport and hopes to enter the medical field.

The Ladies Wednesday Afternoon Club (which was organized in 1895) meets the second Wednesday of the month and says it "is very interested in obtaining knowledge and staying current with everyday society. We encourage anyone who may be interested in joining our group to contact our president, Lois Carter, at 742-0301."

4 O-M students at Villanova University for Explore STEM development experience

Mackenzie Cannon, Gabriel Grover, Madison Moss, and Aidan Thurston taking part

Special to The Odessa File

PHILADELPHA, Pa., July 1, 2018 -- Odessa-Montour school district students Mackenzie Cannon, Gabriel Grover, Madison Moss, and Aidan Thurston joined outstanding Middle School students from across the nation in a unique academic and career-oriented development experience, NYLF Explore STEM, this past week at Villanova University in Philadelphia.

The program, which opened Sunday and ran to Friday, is one of the Envision family of programs (www.envisionexperience.com) that enable students to explore their interests and experience learning beyond the classroom. The students were nominated by local teachers and staff for the trip, and participated in fund-raising to help finance it.

Mackenzie Cannon is President of the Student Council and involved in National Junior Honor Society, Interact Club, and three sports. Her interests include focusing on her education, farming, and taking care of her animals. Her current projects include helping her grandfather with the cows and working in her grandmother’s cheese store, the Sunset View Creamery. In addition, she serves as a cashier for Sunset View Creamery and works at the Finger Lakes Cheese Festival. In looking ahead to NYLF Explore STEM Program, she said she was excited to participate in fun labs and learn more about science, technology, engineering and math.

Gabriel Grover is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and belongs to SCCUDD (a coalition whose aim is to prevent under-age drinking and substance abuse among Schuyler County youth, through education and community teamwork.) His main interests include mountain biking, weight lifting, Tae Kwon Do, computers, baseball, and performing with O-M’s Junior High Chorus. Areas of study that interest him are History and Physics. He said he is grateful to everyone who helped give him this chance. The parts of the NYLF Explore STEM Program which most excited him were real-life scenarios that he thought would help him gain a better understanding of how his future job might really look.

Madison Moss is active in sports and performs with O-M’s Junior High Band. Outside school, she is a member of the Watkins Glen Gators swim team and the American Heritage Girls. She has amassed many hours of community service and freely volunteers her time for the benefit of others. She also enjoys spending time with animals she raises, and plans to enter the field of Marine Biology. She says she is grateful to have been nominated for the STEM experience and appreciates her parents' help. She believes this whole experience will help her in reaching her goal of pursuing Marine Biology.

Aidan Thurston is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, and Junior High Chorus. Outside school, he is a member of SCCUDD and STAND (Schuyler Teens Against Alcohol, Nicotine, and Drugs.) He plays bagpipes with the Caledonian Highlanders Pipe and Drum Band and is a Star Scout with Boy Scout Troop 2674. He is interested in becoming a profiler for the Behavioral Analysis Unit of the FBI. He said he feels that the Villanova week marked a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The parts of the NYLF Explore STEM Program which most excited him were all of the research and lab activities involving Forensics that would give him experience.

The trip was financed with the help of almost $10,000 in fund-raising through such means as donations and cashing in returnable bottles and cans. Organizers said a similar STEM experience is possible in the future as Odessa's STEM-inclined students continue as a club.

"NYLF Explore STEM is an opportunity for high-achieving scholars to get outside the classroom and see, through hands-on interactive learning, how to innovate and think creatively,” said Andrew Potter, the Chief Academic Officer for Envision. “These students, who have already proven themselves academically, are now challenged to work on real-world, student-created projects."

Since 1985, Envision programs have served more than 800,000 students in more than 145 countries, with programs designed to help students develop the leadership, scholarship and career skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive college and career landscape.

Photo in text: From left, O-M STEM students Madison Moss, Aidan Thurston, Mackenzie Cannon and Gabriel Grover. (Photo provided)

Elliott receives Arc's Hayes scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 26, 2018 -- The Arc of Schuyler awarded its Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship to Watkins Glen High School graduate Hanley Elliott at the June 23 commencement ceremony.

This $1,000 scholarship honors Joanne Hayes, former board member and president of The Arc of Schuyler’s board of directors, who passed away in 1987. The award is given annually to a graduating senior pursuing an education in human services, special education, or a related field for a career providing supports to people with developmental disabilities.

Elliott, daughter of Kirra Franzese, will enroll at Ithaca College this fall to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in clinical health studies and a doctorate in physical therapy, specializing in pediatrics. In her application essay, Elliott expressed her desire to “impact the lives of children with disabilities, empowering them to feel stronger and live a high-quality life.”

Elliott has been involved with numerous service clubs, volunteer experiences, and sports throughout her years in high school and, in addition, has held part-time jobs at local businesses. She was also a member f the New Visions Honors Academy Health Career Exploration program in which she excelled.

Elliott’s New Visions instructor, Elizabeth Woodard, commented: “Hanley has always requested to work with children and adults who have physical and developmental disabilities. Getting to work with this population is such a great fit for Hanley, who stated her first medical shadow with children with disabilities was ‘the best day of her life’.”

The Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship is made possible through donations to The Arc of Schuyler, a not-for-profit organization providing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. For more information, visit arcofschuyler.org.

Photo in text: Hanley Elliott (Photo provided)

Douglas to retire as CCC President in '19

Special to The Odessa File

CORNING, June 21, 2018 -- Embarking on eight years in office, Dr. Katherine P. Douglas, President of SUNY Corning Community College, has announced her decision to retire, effective June 30, 2019. The College’s sixth president, her tenure is marked by expansion and public/private partnerships.

In a statement to employees, Douglas said, “It has been my professional honor and a privilege to serve as SUNY Corning Community College’s sixth President. My goal has been to support the power of learning to improve the quality of life for students, their families, and our communities. Maintaining a focus on this positions the College for a future relevant in today’s fast changing society.”

Under Douglas’ leadership, the College has completed a number of initiatives, including the following:

--In 2012, founding the Presidential Scholars scholarship program, which guarantees students who graduate in the top 10% of their high school class in Chemung, Steuben, and Schuyler counties a SUNY CCC associate’s degree with no tuition debt.

--Opened a three-story $16.8 million residence in 2013, dedicating it to the College’s first President -- William Perry. The suite-style building was underwritten by the Corning Community College Development Foundation using no public funds.

--In 2014 a successful capital campaign leveraged $23 million for campus renewal projects, including the re-imagination of the Arthur A. Houghton, Jr. Library, renovation of the Commons, renewal of the Gymnasium, and construction of a new turf field.

--In 2015, SUNY CCC held the ribbon-cutting for its state-of-the-art welding facility in the Academic and Workforce Development Center in Elmira for its non-credit Welding Technology Program.

--In 2016, SUNY CCC welcomed the first class of students to the Southern Tier STEM Academy.

--In 2017, the College opened the Health Education Center, a new state-of-the-art complex that serves the educational needs of aspiring healthcare professionals and positions the College to educate a larger class of nursing students. The facility was funded through Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council’s (STREDC) Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process in partnership with Reidman-Purcell’s $30 million redevelopment of the former hospital site.

--In 2018 SUNY CCC signed a partnership with Siemens, Inc. to retrofit academic buildings to 21st century energy standards while renaming those buildings Chemung Hall, Steuben Hall, and Schuyler Hall.

“Dr. Katherine Douglas has served Corning Community College exceptionally well, leading some of the College’s most character-defining changes in its history,” said Carl Blowers, Chairman of the Regional Board of Trustees. “During her time in office, she transformed the campus into a residential community, responded to changing workforce needs with new academic programs, facilitated partnerships that will bear fruit for decades, and fostered an award-winning athletic program. We are grateful for the talent and forward-thinking vision Kate brought to Corning and wish her the best on her decision to begin this new chapter of her life.”

Photo in text: Dr. Katherine P. Douglas. (File photo)

Left: Retiree Becky Sue Bianco with Superintendent Greg Kelahan at Monday's Watkins Glen School Board meeting. Right: Retiree Rob Michel.

Sports awards presented; retirees lauded

WATKINS GLEN, June 18, 2018 -- Watkins Glen High School athletes who won sectional titles or qualified for State competition in the spring were given Outstanding Athletic Achievement Award certificates Monday evening at a meeting of the Watkins Glen School Board.

Four retirees were also recognized by the board, with the two present receiving Don Maas art prints -- a traditional farewell gift from the district.

Athletes honored included golfers Hanley Elliott and Gabi Decker, who both qualified for the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Golf Championships at Bethpage on Long Island; Gabe Planty, who was the Section IV, Class C 1600 Meter Champion; and Isobel Scheffey, the Section IV, Class C 200 Meter and 400 Meter champion.

The retirees included two who were unable to attend the meeting: Peg Cleary, a Special Education teacher with 19 years experience, and Amy Lakomy, with 22 years at the school, most recently as Librarian.

Present and receiving Maas prints were Becky Sue Bianco, with 37 years of teaching in the district; and Rob Michel, retiring after 36 years.

Superintendent Greg Kelahan praised the dedication of the retirees.

Said Bianco to the School Board: "Thank you for a wonderful career."

Added Michel: "It's been an honor."

In other business, the School Board:

-- Heard from Student Council President Kai Sutterby, who urged its members to consider adding a student representative to the board. She said it would help "open the line of communication" between students and board.

-- Heard from student Kathleen Clifford, who urged the board to reconsider its plan to reduce the number of periods in the day from eight (plus lunch) to seven (plus lunch). She said the move would reduce the number of options and opportunities for students.

Photos in text:

Top: Track's Isobel Scheffey flanked by coaches Kelly Sterner and Travis Durfee.
Middle: Runner Gabe Planty and golfer Hanley Elliott.
Bottom: Student Kai Sutterby confers with Superintendent Greg Kelahan.

Watkins Glen High lists 89 graduates

WATKINS GLEN, June 13, 2018 -- Watkins Glen High School has released a list of graduates that contains 89 names.

The graduation ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 23 in the WGHS auditorium.

The listed graduates: Elise Allington, Amanda Armstrong, Rees Avery, Kristopher Ayers, Patrick Bannon, Jarrod Beardsley, Makenzi Bellows, Amber Benjamin, Arnaz Bharucha, Brandon Blim, Kali Bond, Emilia Bond, Garrett Bower, Dylan Bradley, Steven Bradley, Calvin Buckley, Liza Carnes, Ashley Caslin, Alexis Castellaneta, Clara Chedzoy, Rebecca Chiacchiarini, Kari Coates, Brandy Cornish, Kendra Cornish, Tyler Couch, Dalton Cummings, Gabriella Decker, Michael Doane, Daniel Dunham, Chase Edwards, Hanley Elliott, Ray Forker, Makenna Fraboni, Ethan Franklin, Jacob Grey, Corey Hancharik, Meghan Hayes, Megan Hazlitt, Torie Hill, Sean Holland, Hannah Hornby, Jazsmine Hudson, Dayne Hughey, Jakob Johnson, Katlyn Kernan, Elizabeth Kilcoyne, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Kendra Larson, Joseph LaTorre, Kevin LeRoux Jr., Cody MacDonald, Shianna Mattison, Hannah Matusicky, Sara McManus, Thomas Nelson IV, Daniel Paradiso, Aaron Planty, Nicole Price, Jared Prien, Johnathan Reed, Julia Reilly, Paige Robbins, Tanner Ryan, Hannah St. Julien, Jared Sandritter, Isobel Scheffey, Alex Schimizzi, Jonathan Seaman, Alexis Shea, Jazmin Shea, Conner Smith, Kayla Smith, Emily Sonner, Alan Specchio Jr., Kiersten Stiles, Kathleen Swinnerton, Seth Swinnerton, Reese Tague, Julian Thornton, Trevor Thurston, Joshua Updyke, Kaitlyn Valla, Gavin VanDerEems, Yessenia Vargas, Ethan Voorheis, Simon Wigmore, Phillip Wise, Conlin Wysocki, Tristan Yuhasz.

Photo in text: WGHS Valedictorian Clara Chedzoy. (Photo provided)

O-M Academic Award winners announced

ODESSA, June 13, 2018 -- Academic Awards were presented recently at Odessa-Montour High School during an awards assembly.

Among the winners were:

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award -- Olivia Grover
Connie Torpy Jones Memorial Award -- Hailey Hoose
USMC Scholastic Excellence Award -- Hailey Perraut
USMC Distinguished Athlete Award -- Nakiaha Robinson, William Tague
Elmira Key Award -- Mckenzie Barrett, Hannah Rosier
NYS Office of Attorney General Triple C Award -- Jacqulyn Vincent, Noah Brewster
Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award -- Kennedey Heichel
Univ. of Rochester Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award -- William Yeater
University of Rochester George Eastman Leadership Award -- Nadia Simpson
Celebrate Excellence Awards -- Megan Adams, Grace Vondracek, Noah Brewster
Roch. Institute of Technology Computing Medal -- Kennedey Heichel, Noah Brewster
Roch. Institute of Technology Innovation-Creativity Medal -- Maria Scata, Tyler Carson
University of Rochester Xerox Award -- Donald Roberts
Russell Sage College Student Sage Award -- Jacqulyn Vincent and Hailey Ferguson
Keuka College George H. Ball Community Achievement Award -- Rowan Hollenbeck, Emma Lodge, McKennah Lott, Jacy Knapp, Alexis Saunders
NYS Comptroller Award -- Hailey Perraut
President’s Award for Educational Excellence -- Hailey Perraut, Colin Marsh

Schuyler Scholars from Odessa-Montour: From left: Syria Tague, Hailey Perraut, Gillian Clark, Colin Marsh and Nakiaha Robinson.

Schuyler Scholars honored at hotel dinner

WATKINS GLEN, June 12, 2018 -- Nineteen seniors from three Schuyler County schools were honored Tuesday as Schuyler Scholars at a dinner in the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

The Schuyler Scholars program, in its 11th year, honors students for placing in the top 10% of their class at Bradford, Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen High Schools.

Speakers at Tuesday's gathering included a former Schuyler Scholar, Dr. Katie Ray, a physical therapist at Schuyler Hospital; and Schuyler County Administrator Tim O'Hearn, who noted that he had also spoken at the inaugural Scholars dinner 10 years ago.

Dr. Ray told the honorees that there will be days in the future when things go wrong -- "days when you want to give up" -- but said they should embrace such experiences and learn to deal with them because they will "make you a better person."

Everyone should make their mistakes, learn from them, and keep moving forward toward their goals. Those people who are "not courageous enough to take chances," she said, will "accomplish nothing."

O'Hearn praised the Schuyler Scholars program and said "tonight we celebrate your success, and rightfully so," and called it "testament to your hard work and perseverance."

"I'm lookng at the future," he said, scanning the honorees seated in front of him. "I'm happily looking at the future."

The Bradford High School honorees were introduced first, and presented plaques: Emily Wagner, Alexis Nowicki, and Rhiannon Machuga.

Next came the Odessa-Montour scholars: Hailey Perraut, Gillian Clark, Syria Tague, Nakiaha Robinson and Colin Marsh.

Then the Watkins honorees received their plaques: Emmie Bond, Clara Chedzoy, Gabi Decker, Hanley Elliott, Meghan Hayes, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Tanner Ryan, Trevor Thurston, and Kaitlyn Valla.

Not present were O-M honorees Cheyenne Barrett, rehearsing for this weekend's Lake Country Players production of "Peter Pan Jr." (in which she will be flying); and Carly Smith.

In introducing the Odessa scholars, Superintendent Chris Wood -- who served as the evening's emcee --said the O-M senior class, and in particular its seven Scholar honorees, had "left their mark deep in our school. They are great students, great role models, and great people."

Introductory remarks were also made by Bradford School Superintendent John Marshall, Odessa-Montour High School Principal Skip McCarty, Watkins Glen School Superintendent Greg Kelahan and WGHS Principal Kai D'Alleva.

Photos in text:

Top: WGHS honoree Gabi Decker, flanked by WGHS Principal Kai D'Alleva, left, and Superintendent Greg Kelahan.
Middle: O-M honoree Hailey Perraut with Superintendent Chris Wood.
Bottom: Bradford honorees (from left) Rhiannon Machuga, Alexis Nowicki and Emily Wagner.

Left: Dr. Katie Ray presents her speech as O-M Superintendent Chris Wood listens.
Right: Speaker Tim O'Hearn, the Schuyler County Administrator.

The Watkins Glen High School Schuyler Scholars. From left: Tanner Ryan, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Clara Chedzoy, Gabi Decker, Hanley Elliott, Emmie Bond, Meghan Hayes, Kaitlyn Valla and Trevor Thurston.

Fitzsimmons on SUNY Geneseo Dean's List

GENESEO, NY, June 11, 2018 -- Watkins Glen High School graduate William Fitzsimmons has been named to the Dean's List for the spring semester at SUNY Geneseo.

Fitzsimmons graduated from WGHS in 2017.

To be on the list, a student must have achieved at least a 3.5 grade-point average while taking a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Eight of the nine WGHS seniors honored this year as Rotary Students of the Month. From left: Tanner Ryan, Kayla Smith, Hanley Elliott, Amber Benjamin, Jared Prien, Meghan Hayes, Jackson Dunham and Kaitlyn Valla. Not present: Clara Chedzoy.

WGHS distributes awards at assembly

WATKINS GLEN, May 31, 2018 -- Watkins Glen High School presented awards for academic and athletic achievement at an awards assembly Wednesday night in the school auditorium.

The school-generated athletic awards are presented in a separate article below this one.

Rotary Students of the Month were presented:
September -- Tanner Ryan
October -- Kayla Smith
November -- Meghan Hayes
December -- Jackson Dunham
January -- Kaitlyn Valla
February -- Jared Prien
March -- Hanley Elliott
April -- Amber Benjamin
May -- Clara Chedzoy
June -- TBA

TIES Volunteer Awards: Sara McManus, Shannon Ervay, Amanda Armstrong, and Jordyn Barrett

Varsity Academic Marathon: Emilia Bond, Clara Chedzoy, Gabriella Decker, Meghan Hayes, Hanley Elliott, Tori Hill, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Kendra Larson, Paige Robbins, Tanner Ryan, Jazmin Shea, Trevor Thurston, and Simon Wigmore

University of Rochester:
Bausch & Lomb Science Honorary Award: Kai Sutterby
Fredrick Douglas & Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences & Humanities:
Kathleen Clifford
George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Joseph Chedzoy
Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology: Jonathan Lokken

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award: Kathleen Clifford and Isabella Fazzary

Clarkson University Leadership Award: Casen Weeden

Clarkson University Achievement Award: Kishan Patel

Rochester Institute of Technology Junior Awards:
Innovation & Creativity Award: Dylan Markley
Computing Medal and Scholarship Program: H. Nathaniel Rose

Hobart and William Smith Colleges:
Finger Lakes Scholarship: Joseph Chedzoy, Kathleen Clifford, Kai Sutterby, Casen Weeden, H. Nathaniel Rose, Dylan Markley, Emilee Stephani, Jon Lokken, and Isabella Fazzary

Alfred University Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering Award for Academic Excellence: H. Nathaniel Rose

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal: Joseph Chedzoy

Sage Colleges Student Scholarship: Emilee Stephani

Boy’s State Recognition Awards: Joseph Chedzoy

Math Recognition Awards:
Algebra Regents Award: Cale Sutterby
Geometry Regents Award: Josiah Wysocki
Algebra II Regents Award: Kai Sutterby and H. Nathaniel Rose

Ruth Warner Math Awards: Kristina Wormley and Collin Ector

The Pulitzer Prize of Schuyler County:
Excellence in Scholastic Journalism: Amber Benjamin and Jared Prien

FOWL Library Service Award: Amanda Armstrong

Ryan Pruitt Awareness 24 Achievement Award: Alexis Castellaneta

Barb Hughey Physical Education Award: Ryanna LaMoreaux and Conlin Wysocki

Water Safety Award: Kaitlyn Valla and Meghan Hayes

Chemistry Regents Award: H. Nathaniel Rose

Gerald Loughlin Biology Regents Award (Living Environment): Peter Sandritter

Physics Regents Award: Kayla Smith

Earth Science Regents Award: Austin Voorhees

AP Achievement Award: Tanner Ryan

English Regents Award: Clara Chedzoy

Kate LaMoreaux Lover of Lit Award: Amanda Armstrong

Dugo-Bahns U.S. History Regents Award: Clara Chedzoy and Meghan Hayes

Bahns-Dugo Global History Regents Award: Elizabeth Kilcoyne and Kai Sutterby

Marie Fitzsimmons Student Humanitarian Award: Jared Prien

National Honor Society Awards:
NHS Service Award: Emmie Bond
NHS Leadership Award: Tanner Ryan
NHS Scholarship Award: Clara Chedzoy
NHS Character Award: Daniel Paradiso

Valedictorian -- Clara Chedzoy
Salutatorian -- Trevor Thurston

Photos from top: Amber Benjamin and Jared Prien with journalism award presented by teacher Kelly Muir; Kai Sutterby; Amanda Armstrong (left) and Shannon Ervay with TIES Awards; H. Nathaniel Rose.

WGHS distributes athletic awards

WATKINS GLEN, May 31 -- Watkins Glen High School handed out various sports awards as part of an evening assembly Wednesday in the school auditorium. Academilc and service awards are presented above.

The recipients' names will appear on the corresponding plaques on display in the Field House. The awards and recipients:

Senecas Football Award -- Recipient selected by the football coaching staff for overall contributions to the football program -- Alex Schimizzi.

James Angelo Sr. Basketball Award -- Recipient selected by the boys basketball coaching staff for the outstanding basketball player -- Michael Doane and Dayne Hughey.

TJ O'Rourke Award -- Recipient selected by the Athletic Council for athletic excellence, contribution to the athletic program, leadership and sportsmanship -- Ryanna LaMoreaux.

Coach Joseph J. Lemak Award -- Goes to one boy and one girl as Outstanding Senior Athletes. Selected by the Athletic Council -- Emmie Bond and Josh Updyke.

Dr. Arthur J. Jackson Award -- Goes to one boy and one girl for academic and athletic excellence. Selected by the Athletic Council -- Clara Chedzoy & Simon Wigmore.

Athletic Service Award -- For the non-athlete (in a specific sport) who assisted/contributed to the athletic program. Selected by the Athletic Council -- Scott Brubaker.

Track & Field Award -- For overall contributions to the track and field program. Recipients selected by the track & field coaching staff -- Isobel Scheffey & Aaron Planty.

Francis W. Blake Sportsmanship Award -- Recipients selected from a list that the Physical Education Department sent to the entire high school staff for a vote. The award goes to one girl and one boy -- Paige Robbins and Michael Doane.

Melissa B. Wilson Basketball Award: -- Presented annually by the Wilson family -- Makenna Fraboni

Photos from top: Athletic awards were presented by High School Principal Kai D'Alleva to Alex Schimizzi, Ryanna LaMoreaux and Josh Updyke.

WGHS awards go to 7th, 8th graders

WATKINS GLEN, June 1, 2018 -- The following awards were presented to the Watkins Glen High School 7th and 8th grade students at an awards assembly on May 30.

7th Grade High Honor Roll Award:
Carly Arnold, Ava Barber, Hannah Berry, Dominic Craven, Kendall Gascon, Otto Hohle, Lois Hosley, Dallas Johnson, Maia Kamakawiwoole, Skylar Lagramada, Han Shun Liu, Alyssa Miller, Shane Miller, Faye Mooney, Jason Murphy, Mark Niederhofer, Ross Pentz, Isabella Samuel, Sarah Schaffner, Samantha Seaman, Deven Searle, Jonah Sisel, Jenna Solomon, Julia Thorsland, Emmalise Updyke, Kayla Wood.

7th Grade Honor Roll:
Alyiah Clink-Bentley, Macy Fitzgerald, Thomas Goltry-Coots, Abigal Grebleski, Alexis Hatch, Jared Jilson, Aubrey Kellogg, Cadin Knapp, Kaden LaBar, Ryan Maslinski, Andrue Mathews, Erin McKenzie, Braiden Merrill Ventra, Aaliyah Miller, Peiyton Pangallo, Gabriel Santos, Rebecca Scholtisek, Joseph Sutterby, Ryan Thompson, Jacob VanDerEems, Jacob Yontz, Shea Young

Achievement Awards -- 7th Grade:
ELA Faye Mooney, Jenna Solomon Health Samantha Seaman Math Samantha Seaman Science Jenna Solomon Social Studies Ross Pentz Spanish Faye Mooney
Technology Han Shun Liu

PE Awards:
Ava Barber, Aliyah Clink-Bentley, Domonic Craven, Otto Hohle, Dallas Johnson, Maia Kamakawiwoole, Gregory Mason, Shane Miller, Jason Murphy, Isabella Samuel, Gabriel Santos, Deven Searle, Jenna Solomon.

Perseverance:
Dallas Johnson, Jonah Sissel. Dignity Kendall Gascon, Mark Niederhofer Ingenuity Erin McKenzie, Jason Murphy.

Collaboration:
Alexis Hatch, Shea Young.

Junior Honor Society Inductees:
Nicholas Bonsignore, Malina Butler, Ava Cowan, Alannah Klemann, Giuseppe La Face, Thalia Marquez, Dylan Nguyen, Brenna Pierce, Maisie Robertson, Nathan Triner, Ashlyn Karius, Jade Scaptura, Robin Zimba.

8th Grade High Honor Roll Award:
Carlie Baker, Bailey Beaumont, Gavin Bond, Kaylynn Burke, Breanna Carl, Douglas DiGregorio, Molly Dunham, Daniel Ely, Noah Gardner, Abigail Gibson, Andrew Hayes, Cameron Holland, Madelynn Jones, Ashlyn Karius, Isabella La Face, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Kellie Memoli, Sierra Morris, Matthew Sandritter, Jade Scaptura, Owen Scholtisek, Kara Sheesley, Anya Simpson, Jordannmarie Simpson, Brandon Smith, Maya Somerville, Benjamin Swinnerton, Colby Thurston, Kade Westervelt, Melanie Wysocki, Robin Zimba.

8th Grade Honor Roll:
Owen Bingham, Daine Butler, Haley Carl, Ashlyn Castillo, Chloe Gouin, Zachary Naylor, Mitchell Pike, Emily Rhoads, Charlie Samuel, Luke Spahalski, Matthew Swarthout, Christa Taber, Gaetono Williams, Cloey Wratten.

All-Star Award:
Ashlyn Castillo, Christa Taber, Jade Williams.

Peter Galatis Award:
Luke Spahalski

PE Awards:
Daine Butler, Abigail Gibson, Travon Jones, Kellie Memoli, Owen Scholtisek, Brandon Smith, Jayden Smith, Luke Spahalski, Christa Taber, Melanie Wysocki, Robin Zimba.

Achievement Awards:
ELA: Matthew Sandritter Science Robin Zimba Social Studies Matthew Sandritter Spanish Douglas DiGregorio, Andrew Hayes, Matthew Sandritter
Perseverance: Isabella La Face Dignity Melanie Wysocki Ingenuity Kellie Memoli
Collaboration: Mason Lampman-Roisen

Triple C Award:
Douglas DiGregorio, Robin Zimba

Comptroller Award:
Cameron Holland

The Watkins Glen High School Chorus performed four songs at Tuesday's concert.

Watkins Glen High holds its Spring Concert

WATKINS GLEN, May 15 -- Students in grades 7 through 12 at Watkins Glen High School performed an array of choral and instrumental music Tuesday night at the school's Spring Concert in the high school auditorium.

The 7th and 8th Grade Chorus sang "Lullaby of Birdland," "Magical Kingdom," "Over the Rainbow" and "Let Me Fly."

The High School Chorus followed with "It Don't Mean a Thing," "Come, Ye Disconsolate," "Closer to the Flame" and "Sisi Ni Moja." The Combined District Choirs then sang "The Gift to Sing."

The 7th and 8th Grade Band performed "Mystic Legend," "Of Time and Change" and "Dynamo." The 7/8 Band and High School Concert Band then teamed for "March of the Belgian Paratroopers."

The High School Concert Band concluded with "Okeanos," a pair of Cajun Folksongs and "My Shot" from the musical Hamilton.

Photo in text: Members of the 7th and 8th grade Chorus.

At the concert: Members of the 7th and 8th Grade Band perform.

Student art was on display in the hallways outside the concert auditorium Tuesday night. Among the many pieces were the two above -- by Melanie Wysocki (left) and Kai Pittman.

O-M's Robinson wins Chamber scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 14, 2018 -- Odessa-Montour High School senior Nakiaha Robinson has been named winner of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Business and Education Committee's annual $1,000 scholarship.

The award is presented each year to a graduating senior who is a resident of Schuyler County or attends Bradford, Odessa-Montour, or Watkins Glen high school.

Robinson is a member of the National Honor Society, Interact Club, and Yearbook. She has also served as Student Council President and as a member of the Superintendent’s Leadership Group. She is also captain of the varsity basketball team. She was the recipient of the Rotary Student of the Month award in September 2017.

For her application, Robinson selected the essay prompt “Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?” She wrote about her adoptive mother, Polly Garrison, saying, “This is a tribute to a woman who constantly inspires me, motivates me, is there for a hug on my down days, and has shown me unconditional love even before she took me in.”

Robinson’s plans for the future include attending St. John Fisher College in Rochester, where she will major in pre-law with a minor in sociology.

Photo in text: Nakiaha Robinson (File photo)

Rotary to sponsor Fazzary at Empire State

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 14, 2018 -- The Watkins-Montour Rotary Club is sponsoring a student for Empire Girls State -- the first time Schuyler County has sent a representative in 20 years.

Watkins Glen High School junior Isabella Fazzary will attend Empire Girls State in Brockport this summer. The program is scheduled from July 1-7.

"When we heard that Isabella was interested in and eligible for Girls State, our Board was excited to support her," said Rich Greenberger, Watkins-Montour Rotary President. "Supporting Isabella aligns with Rotary's goals of supporting education and promoting peace. We look forward to hearing about her experience."

Empire Girls State is a hands-on week-long educational workshop, focusing on Americanism and the political process, sponsored by the New York State American Legion Auxiliary. The goal of the program is to help students to better understand democratic ideals and the part we as individuals play in carrying out these ideals.

Photo in text: Isabella Fazzary (Photo provided)

All of the Schuyler County participants -- from the Odessa-Montour and Bradford Central Schools -- at the 2018 Southern Tier Regional Envirothon. (Photo provided)

O-M captures Schuyler Envirothon title

Special to The Odessa File

OWEGO, May 1, 2018 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School "Otters" was the Schuyler County winning team Monday at the Southern Tier Envirothon held at the Tioga County Sportsmen's Center in Owego, defeating nine other Schuyler teams and finishing second overall out of the 36 squads on hand from around the region.

The Otters squad, coached by high school science teacher, Doug Chapman, thus will represent Schuyler County at the 2018 New York State Envirothon at the Hobart & William Smith Colleges in Geneva later this month. The winning team at the statewide competition will compete at the Canon National Envirothon at Idaho State University in July.

Schuyler, Chemung, Broome, Tioga and Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation Districts combine efforts each year to provide high schools in the five counties with this regional, Southern Tier Envirothon to determine county champions.

Battling for the chance to represent their county at the statewide event, the students’ knowledge was put to the test as the teams completed tough exams in Aquatics, Soils, Forestry, Wildlife, and this year’s Current Issue: "Western Rangeland Management: Balancing Diverse Views.”

Two schools, 10 teams, and 50 students from Schuyler County participated in the event, which saw participation by 12 regional schools. Odessa-Montour had five teams, and Bradford Central School had five. One other Schuyler County student, Dezirae Minnier, from Odessa, was on the winning Chemung County team, the "Vicious Voles" from Greater Southern Tier (GST) BOCES.

Besides the "Otters," another O-M team, the "Mayflies," came in second among Schuyler teams, while a Bradford team, "Adios Amigos," was third. Rebecca Schrader is the coach for the Bradford teams.

The Soil and Water Conservation Districts help to organize the Envirothon, and essential support is provided by the school science teachers, the school districts and also local businesses and service organizations who donate funds for financial support. Donors this year include The Watkins Glen Fire Company, The Watkins Glen Elks Lodge #1546, The Montour Falls Moose Lodge #426, Cotton Hanlon, Inc., Seneca Lodge, Reisinger’s Apple Country LLC., David L. Sidle Insurance Agency, Kimball Realty, and the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association.

The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District provides programs and services to help residents and communities manage and protect the natural resources of Schuyler County.

Photo in text: The Odessa-Montour "Otters," the Schuyler County winning Envirothon team. From left: Taylor Grover, Billy Tague, Andy Ink, Gillian Clark and Colin Marsh. (Photo provided)

A time for youth to stand up and be heard

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by Watkins Glen High School junior Kathleen Clifford, who is interning with this website. It recounts her experience at the recent March for Our Lives in Ithaca.

By Kathleen Clifford

SCHUYLER COUNTY, April 28, 2018 -- On March 24, 2018, hundreds of thousands of people around the nation marched in the March for Our Lives, which protested the persistence of gun violence in the USA. Although the largest march was held in Washington D.C. with around 800,000 people, local marches were held as well, including in Ithaca, which drew a crowd of about 1,000.

In schools alone, there have been at least 17 instances of shootings in 2018. The majority of a school’s population is made up of students, increasing the importance for students to take a stand against gun violence in the U.S.

Because youth are being directly affected by this problem, they are actively participating in protests such as March for Our Lives. The U.S. has a government that allows participation and influence from civilians, but to vote you must be at least 18 years of age. Due to this restriction, many of those being affected by mass instances of gun violence cannot have their voice heard in the typical way of many Americans, by voting.

Instead, students are allowing their voices to be heard by creating their own forums, and protesting and marching across the country. The key is that youth across the country are speaking out, not just in the major cities. In order for the youth to make a change, there must be a huge movement, and local students in the Finger Lakes Region were provided with the valuable opportunity to participate. Students from surrounding schools in Ithaca, Watkins Glen and Trumansburg all participated in this event.

The event, taking place on March 24, 2018, involved students and adults from surrounding areas meeting up on the Ithaca Commons, and holding signs up while listening to various speakers. Speakers included local students, parents, and community leaders. Speeches were about changes that need to be made on both national and state levels; issues such as the gun violence against blacks were brought up, as well.

The movement against gun violence is gaining momentum, and now is the time for the youth in the U.S. to begin to take a stand against the very problem that could end their lives or that of their friends. The problem of gun violence is not exclusive to large schools or big cities, and must be solved before the issue grows.

With a local platform for their voices to be heard, many attending the protest hoped for change to take place in New York State in the future. Young people are the future of the U.S., and it is important that their voices be heard.

Local movements build to create national movements, and the pieces must all come together to create a larger opportunity for change. With many local youth participating in this student-led movement, we are creating an active generation that will fight to have its voices heard, and fight to create change for the better.

Photos in text: Scenes from the Ithaca March for Our Lives. (Photos provided by Kathleeen Clifford)

Palmesano meets with WG fourth-graders

Special to
The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 26 -- Assemblyman Phil Palmesano spoke with an inquisitive and energetic group of about 80 fourth-grade students at Watkins Glen Elementary School recently.

He delivered a presentation on state government. Palmesano outlined the respective roles each of the three branches of government play in serving New Yorkers and explained the process by which a bill becomes a law. Additionally, he detailed his role as an assemblyman.

“It was a true pleasure to speak to the students at Watkins Glen Elementary School,” said Palmesano. “They were a great group of kids and they asked really insightful questions. I know they have bright futures ahead of them, and I want to thank all of the faculty and staff for hosting me.”

In addition to meeting with the fourth-graders, Palmesano met with a group of Watkins Glen High School freshmen and eighth-grade students later in the day.

Photo in text: Asemblyman Palmesano speaks to 4th-graders at WGES. (Photo provided)

Auxiliary offers Health Care scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, April 25, 2018 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is offering scholarships to students who plan to enter the health care field.

$1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, and to hospital employees wishing to further their education in the health care field. 

Applications may be found on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org. Applications may also be picked up at high school guidance offices, or the Hospital’s Human Resources office -- located inside the Main Entrance of the Hospital.

Applications must be postmarked by May 29, 2018.

For more information, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary member Joan Argetsinger at (607) 535-6622.

Dunn named BOCES Student of Month

ODESSA, April 25, 2018 -- Trevor Dunn, an Odessa-Montour High School senior in the Welding and Metal Fabrication program, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Program Student of the Month for March at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

“Trevor is a hard worker who mentors other students in the shop and the classroom,” said Instructor Mike Lederman. “He is the type of student who all teachers want to have in their class.” Trevor plans to attend college to study mechanical engineering.

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Trevor Dunn (center), a senior in the Welding and Metal Fabrication program, accepts the Student of the Month award from Instructor Mike Lederman (left) and CTE Assistant Principal Jared Kennedy (right). (Photo provided)

Watkins Library budget vote is May 9

WATKINS GLEN, April 5, 2018 -- The Watkins Glen Public Library's proposed 2018-19 budget of $190,888 will be voted upon by Watkins Glen School District residents on Wednesday, May 9 from 1-8 p.m. at the library, 610 S. Decatur St.

A public hearing on the budget, which is up from the current year's $186,622, will be held from 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 25 at the library.

Members of the library board outlined the budget at the April 3 Watkins Glen School Board meeting. The school district collects the needed tax money for library operational expenses. Specifically, a total of $135,942 of the library budget is slated to come from taxes. Other sources of income are gifts and donations, fines, fees, grants, and rental income.

Library Board President Judy Phillips explained the budget to the School Board, with library board members Maggie Field and Duke Argetsinger also on hand.

Patrons checked out 37,266 print books from the Watkins Glen Public Library in 2017, along with Ebooks, audio books, and DVDs. A total of 195 programs were offered for children and adults, with total attendance of 3,249 children and 461 adults.

The conference room and library meeting spaces were used 162 times by 29 different community organizations.

Photo in text: Watkins Glen Public Library Board president Judy Phillips, right, at the School Board meeting. In the background is School Board president Gloria Brubaker.

Quasimodo (Wyatt Brower, right) throws Archdeacon Frollo (H. Nathaniel Rose) from the cathedral tower to his death.

'Hunchback' ends its 3-day run at WGHS

WATKINS GLEN, March 24, 2018 -- The Watkins Glen High School Class of 2018 presented its dramatic spring musical, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” for the third and final time Sunday afternoon in the WGHS auditorium.

The play opened Friday night and was performed again Saturday night, leading to the matinee finale.

Based on songs from the Disney film and on the plot of the Victor Hugo novel, the show follows Esmeralda and her fellow gypsies as they fight against the prejudices of Archdeacon Frollo.

Raised in seclusion by Frollo, Quasimodo longs to be among the people he watches from the towers of the Notre Dame cathedral, and eventually gains the courage to break out and save Esmeralda, who has shown him kindness. Soldier Phoebus and Queen of the Gypsies Clopin also help the people rise up against oppression. The show carries many timely themes.

In all, over 20 students from 7th to 12th grades rehearsed since January, immersing themselves in the challenging music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The book is by Peter Parnell. Memorable songs include "Someday,” “God Help the Outcasts,” “Out There,” and “Heaven’s Light.”

Michelle and Tim Benjamin of Montour Falls directed (their 14th show for Watkins Glen High School), with Sarah Matthews as Music Director. Costume Director was Tammy Cole, and Choreographers included Michelle Benjamin, student Grace Wickham, and alum Kelsey Johnson.

H. Nathaniel Rose played Frollo, with Wyatt Brower as Quasimodo. Grace Wickham was Esmeralda, and Conlin Wysocki was Captain Phoebus. Amanda Armstrong played Clopin.

Other featured actors included Alix Matthews as Jehan Frollo, Jack Muir as Lt. Frederic, Claudia Parker as Florika and Kelsey Kernan as Saint Aphrodisius.

The statues and gargoyles who befriend the lonely Quasimodo were Maria Brubaker, Scott Brubaker, Douglas DiGregorio, Elliott Holland, Ashlyn Karius, Kathryn Losey, and Nikole VanDyke.

Rounding out the cast and playing multiple roles were: Macy Fitzgerald, Hannah Jitomer-Rowland, Iris Elaina Rodriguez, Sarah Shaffner, Anya Simpson, and Sarai Wynkoop.

The pit band included Matthews, Tom Bloodgood, Pam Cicconi, Kim Laursen, Bernie Riley, Sam Riley, and Simon Wigmore.

Hair was by Shear Elegance. The producer was Sam Brubaker, and the show was presented by the WGHS Class of 2018, in cooperation with Music Theatre International.

*****

Photos in text:

Top: Captain Phoebus (Conlin Wysocki) and Esmeralda (Grace Wickham) sing a duet.

Second: Esmeralda (Grace Wickham) is held by Quasimodo (Wyatt Brower) as she nears death.

Third: Quasimodo and Captain Phoebus grieve the passing of Esmeralda.

Left: Kelsey Kernan as Saint Aphrodisius sings to Quasimodo. Right: Elliott Holland narrates at the end of the play.

Members of the chorus sing during an Act 2 musical number.

Left: Claudia Parker and Alix Matthews as the spirits of Quasimodo's parents (seen early in the play) reappear in Act. 2. Right: Archdeacon Frollo (H. Nathaniel Rose) and Esmeralda (Grace Wickham) argue late in the play.

Left: Kathryn Losey sings in Act 2. Right: Macy Fitzgerald, left, and Sarai Wynkoop.

And on opening night:

Wyatt Brower as the title character, Quasimodo, performs a first-act song.

Grace Wickham as Esmeralda performs a dance in the play's first act.

Jack Muir and Maria Brubaker maneuver during a cast dance number.

A swordfight breaks out as Captain Phoebus (Conlin Wysocki, center) resists an order issued by Frollo (H. Nathaniel Rose), who is grabbing him. Phoebus is wounded, but escapes with the help of Esmeralda (Grace Wickham, foreground).

Esmeralda (Grace Wickham) and Quasimodo (Wyatt Brower) become friends.

Left: Conlin Wysocki as Captain Phoebus. Right: H. Nathaniel Rose as Frollo.

Left: Kelsey Kernan. Right: Claudia Parker (on left) and Kathryn Losey during a musical number, one of many in the first act.

Left: Bernie Riley and daughter Samantha (background) were members of the pit band. Right: Tom Bloodgood played the cello in the pit band.

Left: Amanda Armstrong portrayed the gypsy Clopin. Right: Douglas DiGregorio was a soldier; he also portrayed a gargoyle.

From left: Scott Brubaker, Maria Brubaker and Wyatt Brower in "Hunchback."

And before the performance:

From left: Amanda Armstrong, Iris Elaina Rodriguez and Elliott Holland.

From left: Nikole VanDyke, Director Michelle Benjamin, and H. Nathaniel Rose.

And at dress rehearsal earlier in the week:

Wyatt Brower, as Quasimodo, belts out a song in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame."

Left: Music Director Sarah Matthews. Right: Amanda Armstrong as the gypsy Clopin.

Left: Maria Brubaker as one of the statues who befriend Quasimodo. Right: Conlin Wysocki and Grace Wickham as two of the lead characters.

The conclusion of a song in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame."

Watkins Glen High School students sat silently during the 17 minutes at a table displaying photos of the Parkland school shooting victims.

O-M, WGHS students stage 17-minute walkouts in step with national movement

SCHUYLER COUNTY, March 14, 2018 -- Some students at the Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen school districts staged 17-minute walkouts from their classrooms Wednesday on the day of a nationwide movement created in reaction to the Parkland, Florida school shooting.

That February massacre, during which 17 people died, was remembered in walkouts around the nation Wednesday, many of the movements political in nature as students protested the lack of Congressional action to tighten gun laws, especially regarding the easy access to assault weapons.

Officials at Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen schools said the movement at their facilities was student motivated, and that instead of politically-charged rhetoric, silent vigils ruled the day. There was no sign here of the gun law protests elsewhere in the country.

At O-M, about 120 students gathered in the Fetter-Brown Auditorium before the designated 10 a.m. walkout time, and did so for 17 minutes, from 8:13 to 8:30 a.m. "It was designed by students with administrative collaboration," said Superintendent Chris Wood, who noted that holding the event indoors was better than outdoors from a safety standpoint.

The gathering, said Wood, involved 17 minutes of silence from students who ranged in age from elementary school through high school. Only those students who wished to participate did so.

The event was followed by meetings through the day -- scheduled before the auditorium event had evolved -- with high school classes to impress upon students the need to be "good people" and "digital citizens, trying to be positive," said Wood. These were an offshoot of a recent incident involving the removal of a student from school following a "non-specific threat" toward the school and a specific threat toward another student.

At Watkins Glen, the national event's 10 a.m. starting time was observed, with at least three groups of students gathering -- including more than a dozen in the lobby near the high school office. There, students Wrett and Wyatt Brower were playing a power-point presentation showing photos of the 17 victims of the Parkland shooting, which occurred last month.

Nearby -- in the school courtyard -- about 90 students gathered in the falling snow for a silent vigil organized by junior Claudia Parker and senior Ashley Caslin. When they were done, Parker thanked the group for coming and said: "Every minute here represented one life ... taken way too soon."

Watkins Glen school officials said the gatherings -- which also included a group of students outside the Elementary School -- were student-orchestrated. "We're just following the kids' lead," said Superintendent Greg Kelahan.

Classes continued in session during the vigils, minus the walkout participants.

Photos in text:

Top: The silent vigil in the WGHS courtyard proved emotional for some of the students.
Bottom: Students also gathered outside the WGHS Elementary School. (Photo provided)

Watkins Glen High School students Claudia Parker, left, and Ashley Caslin, right, led the silent vigil in the WGHS courtyard.

Wood: We'll employ robocalls in future following incidents involving safety

ODESSA, March 9, 2018 -- Odessa-Montour School Superintendent Chris Wood said it was "a learning experience."

He was referring to the decision recently made -- following a student-generated threat that led to a police presence at the school -- to notify parents by letter rather than a faster option known as robocalls, or automatically generated phone calls with the same message.

Wood's comment came Thursday night at a meeting of the O-M School Board, following a suggestion by one parent that the district needs to notify parents faster than it did in the recent case, which Wood says involved "a non-specific threat toward the school and a specific threat toward a student" by another student in the district. Law enforcement was notified and in turn handled it. Wood could not divulge either the school or the age of the student.

The parent, Niki Turnmyre, a first responder with emergency response and firefighting on her resume, thanked the district "for handling the recent threat" quickly, but added that "the means of notification" was slow. "A more timely" notification "would be more appropriate. I sent my kids to school for 2 1/2 days not knowing."

Parents receive robocalls after bus accidents and other incidents, she said, "so why not after a threat? I'd appreciate knowing sooner rather than later."

Wood agreed with her, explaining that among his reports to the board that night was one on school safety -- which under the circumstances he moved from last to first on his presentation list.

He said the decision to send a letter had been made on the advice of school counsel, but that feedback has convinced him that robocalls would have been preferable and will be utilized in similar situations going forward. "It was a learning experience for myself," he said. "That's what we'll do in the future."

He described various protocols currently in place at O-M regarding school entrances, lockdowns, and interactions with state police and firefighters and said plans are constantly being adopted and improved in anticipation of possible disruptions created by threats or by "a shooter, explosions or gas leaks."

The district is also considering measures it might install at after-school events such as plays and sports contests. There is little in the way of existing programs in other districts to help guide the development of such an O-M plan, he said.

He outlined steps taken when there is a threat -- such as the recent one, which occurred shortly after the deadly shooting rampage in Parkland, Florida. Police are called in such a circumstance, he said, and the investigation is handed to them. Also possibly present are representatives from the Probation Department, Youth Court or other agencies.

He said privacy rights prohibited specific explanation to parents or the public at large about the recently accused student -- a situation further affected by age. "We have to look at the age of the kid," he said, and whether he's a 4th grader or enrolled in the high school.

"We take these things very seriously," he said. "We take due diligence to keep students safe." And with that he pointed to a number of administrators, himself included, who have children in local schools and trust the district with their safety.

He also said meetings are planned with 9th through 12th graders next week to impress upon them "what happens if they make a threat, even jokingly."

Photo in text: O-M Superintendent Chris Wood, right, with School Board President Rob Halpin at Thursday night's meeting.

Elaina Rodriguez sings "Part of That World." Katie McShane is accompanying on piano.

WGHS students display their talents
at annual Artists in Rcsidence concerts

WATKINS GLEN, March 7, 2018 -- More than a dozen Watkins Glen High School students showed the culmination of two-and-a-half weeks of work with resident professional artists Wednesday afternoon and evening by performing at concerts in the school auditorium.

The first concert, at a high school-wide assembly, drew a large crowd; a public concert in the evening drew far fewer people. At each, vocalists and instrumentalists performed while accompanied by professional musicians Katie McShane, Rosie Newton and Jesse Heasly. McShane and Newton have now participated in this program for six years; and Heasly, who lives with McShane in Brooklyn, has been here three times.

The program, which was begun in 1993 under the auspices of then-Middle School teacher Jim Murphy, featured Ithaca-based and world renowned bassist Hank Roberts for many years before he handed it off to McShane and Newton. They, like Roberts, presented the concerts in the Middle School for their first two years here, and since then-- with the closing of the Middle School -- in the high school auditorium ever since.

The three musicians said they find satisfaction in helping students develop performance skills, and are hoping to expand their interaction by starting similar programs elsewhere, possibly at Trumansburg's high school next year. Newton -- who like McShane and Heasly tours frequently, is a resident of Trumansburg.

The afternoon assembly offered 16 acts, while the evening concert featured the same acts plus several others. Performing in the afternoon were the following students:

--Gaaetano Williams and Lexi Shea, singing a duet of Ed Sheeran's "Perfect." Williams also played piano.
--Miranda Rodriguez, singing "Waving Through a Window."
--Claudia Parker, performing 21 Pilots' "Goner" on piano. McShane said Parker and the three pros improvised some of the music at the outset.
--Sarah Schaffner, singing "Not About Angels."
--Alex Burke, singing "Satellite."
--Jack Muir, singing an original titled "Best Friends" while playing the guitar. He composed it collaboratively with the Artists in Residence.
--Alexis Lepp, singing "Stitches."
--Nate Farnsworth, singing Ed Sheeran's "Hearts Don't Break Around Here."
--Sarah Joslin, singing "Beneath Your Beautiful."
--John Reed, singing an original song titled "Shame." He composed it collaboratively with the Artists in Residence.
--Kayla Palmer, performing on piano "I Need My Girl" by The National, with her own arrangement.
--Wyatt and Wrett Brower performing "100 Ways," with Wyatt on vocals and Wrett playing electric guitar.
--Erin McKenzie, singing "Never Enough" from The Greatest Showman.
--Conlin Wysocki, singing a song he composed titled "Bittersweet," and playing guitar.
--Elaina Rodriguez, singing "Part of That World" from The Little Mermaid.

The evening program featured those artists plus the following students:

--Caleb Rosell, singing Thomas Rhett's "Marry Me" and playing guitar.
--Lexi Shea, singing "Issues" by Julia Michaels.
--Enqi Lin, singing Ruth B's "Lost Boy."
--Scott Brubaker, singing "Stars" from Les Miserables.
--Alix Matthews, singing Green Day's "Boulevard of Broken Dreams."
--Katie Losey, singing, and playing percussion on, "We Are Young."
--Sierra Morris, singing "Tightrope" from The Greatest Showman.

The evening show concluded with the performers gathering to sing "We Are The World" by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie.

McShane, Newton and Heasly, who worked during the past two-and-a-half weeks one-on-one with the young performers, accompanied each person on stage. McShane plays the guitar, cello, keyboard and piano, and sings on tour. Newton plays the fiddle, viola, guitar and accordion. Heasly plays mostly bass, along with piano.

When asked which they liked better -- the process of developing the students' acts or the performances -- McShane and Newton answered in tandem: "Both."

"The performance is a big part of the process," said Newton.

Added Heasly: "The performance is the payoff."

With the Artist in Residence program now at the quarter-century mark, will they be returning next year? They all nodded yes.

"We've worked with some of these students for six years, others for four," said McShane, noting that they mentor 7th through 12th graders. There was a least one 7th grader, Erin McKenzie, in the concert.

"We've built relationships," added McShane

There's a point each time, said Newton, when the whole thing comes together. After starting from scratch on the musical selections -- with the students selecting what they want to work on -- a rag-tag first week hits its stride in the second week.

"It all melds," Newton said. "In that second week, it comes together and becomes a performance."

Photos in text:

Top: Gaetano Williams sings "Perfect" while playing the piano.
Second: Wyatt Brower, with his brother accompanying in the background, sings "100 Ways."
Third: Conlin Wysocki sings a song he created called "Bittersweet."
Fourth: Rosie Newton accompanying one of the performers.
Fifth: Artist in Residence Jesse Heasly on bass.

7th grader Erin McKenzie sings "Never Enough" from the film The Greatest Showman.

Left: Student Jack Muir performs an original song, "Best Friend." Right: Artist in Residence Katie McShane on the keyboard.

Left: Nate Farnsworth sings "Hearts Don't Break Around Here." Right: Claudia Parker performs "Goner" on the piano.

Alex Burke sings "Satellite." Katie McShane accompanies at left, and Jesse Heasly at right.

Left: Alexis Lepp sings "Stitches." Right: Sarah Joslin sings "Beneath Your Beautiful."

Teachers Kim Suddaby, left, and Kelsey Melvin play flutes in a show-opening duet.

Left: Lexi Shea sings "Perfect." Right: John Reed sings an original titled "Shame."

Left: Sarah Schaffner sings "Not About Angels." Right: Miranda Rodriguez sings "Waving Through a Window."

Arc of Schuyler offers $1,000 scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 1, 2018 -- The Arc of Schuyler is offering a $1,000 scholarship in honor of past board member Joanne S. Hayes. Seniors at Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford Central Schools or seniors residing in Schuyler County who attend school in a different district are eligible to apply for the award.

“This scholarship program focuses on informing students, parents, schools and the community at large that there are a variety of rewarding careers available working with people with developmental disabilities,” said Jeannette Frank, executive director of The Arc of Schuyler.

The scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior continuing his or her education in special education, human services or a related clinical area, which will be used in a career providing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism.

Applications are due May 18, 2018. For more information, visit www.arcofschuyler.org or call 607-535-6934.

High School Principal Kai D'Alleva addresses students at the assembly Tuesday morning.

Student assembly at WGHS offers forum on issues of school shootings and safety

To read student Amber Benjamin's speech, click here.

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 27 , 2018 -- The Watkins Glen 7th through 12th graders gathered early Tuesday morning in the high school auditorium to air their thoughts, fears and ideas about school safety in the wake of the slaughter on Valentine's Day at a school in South Florida.

The shootings by a former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida was front and center Tuesday thanks to an article in the school newspaper written by the assembly moderators, seniors Amber Benjamin and Jared Prien. It dealt with interviews with three students on the subject, and triggered a request by Superintendent Greg Kelahan and High School Principal Kai D'Alleva for Benjamin and Prien to oversee the assembly, offering remarks of their own before soliciting those of fellow students.

Prien spoke relatively briefly from notes, saying he was "a bit undecided" on which side carries more weight in the ongoing argument between those who say tighter gun controls are needed versus those who argue that mental illness instead of guns is to blame. But he noted that "banning guns might not be the right move." He suggested that alertness, and letting a teacher or "someone you trust" know if something seems amiss, can go a long way toward short-circuiting a potentially dangerous situation.

Benjamin presented a prepared text. To read it, click here.

After they spoke, almost two dozen students followed suit, touching on a number of issues, with ideas such as:

--Students should consider attending a March For Our Lives in Ithaca on March 24, one of various "things in our area to prevent" incidents like the Parkland shooting.

--Fund-raising can provide money to better afford greater security at the school.

--There should be greater restrictions on gun raffles.

--Be sensitive and kinder to fellow students. Eliminate bullying and cyber-bullying.

--Install metal detectors at school entrances.

--The school -- and other schools in the area -- should consider participating in a nationwide "walkout" for 17 minutes on March 17 in honor of the 17 people slain at the Florida school.

--Tighten security after school at the Field House, where anyone can walk in during after-school activities.

--There should be more preventative measures like lockdown drills currently part of the school's safety protocols.

--Training for students should include an understanding of warning signs they might look for.

--More money should go into mental health, and an effort should be made on the part of students to not look down on any students seeking such help.

--Don't allow teachers to carry guns, because "it would just create more fear."

--Get to know fellow students better. One said he didn't know a lot of the students there in the auditiorium, a common problem that limits communication -- and "communication is a key" in seeking out and preventing possible tragedies.

School Resource Officer David Waite said that if a student -- say one just leaving a rest room -- finds himself or herself in a hallway as a shooting incident begins, he or she should get to a classroom as quickly as possible, because a lockdown means just that: the room is being locked and lights turned off in the hope of dissuading a shooter from entering. Once locked, the door should not be unlocked again -- leaving a student wandering the hallway in a difficult situation.

In addition, he said, students should not respond to a fire alarm once a lockdown is initiated since some shooters -- such as the one in Florida -- set them off to draw targets out of the classrooms. "Do the safest thing you can," he said, including going out a window if the situation warrants.

Principal D'Alleva said afterward that the forum generated some good ideas and will lead to further discussions in small groups, with the hope of adding to safety protocols now in effect. Some of those are by nature best kept out of the public eye. Others are obvious, such as designated teachers walking designated routes at the outset of the school day to make sure that nothing seems out of the ordinary.

But nothing, he said, is taken for granted. And since an attack is never expected and yet could happen at any time, both caution and awareness, not to mention a proactive mindset, are necessary.

That, and plenty of discussion and planning. For if something happens, there would be little time to think, since-- noted Waite -- attacks generally take only about five minutes and are "a fluid situation." Not to mention chaotic and terrifying.

Photos in text:

Top: Moderators Jared Prien, left, and Amber Benjamin speak to Superintendent Greg Kelahan before the start of the assembly.

Second: Students pay attention to the comments of one of the more than 20 students who addressed the assembly.

Third: School Resource Officer David Waite speaks to the students.

Bottom: Student Kelsey Kernan was among those who spoke.

Ideas offered by students were jotted on large sheets of paper and posted. They will become part of the ongoing discussion going forward.

Left: Student Amanda Wilbur was among the speakers. Right: Teacher Sam Brubaker peruses some of the assembly-generated ideas that were written down.

DeNardo on Dean's List at Penn State

Special to The Odessa File

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., Feb. 18, 2018 -- Haley DeNardo, daughter of Mike and Betty DeNardo of Montour Falls, NY, attained Dean's List with 3.72 GPA in the fall of 2017 at Penn State University.

She is completing a Bachelor of Architecture program and will graduate on May 5, 2018. This is five-year program. She has also acted as a leader in The American Institute of Architecture Students, National Architectural Accrediting Board, and dance marathon "Thon" to raise funds against pediatric cancer.

She plans to work in the Washington, D.C. area after graduation.

O'Mara-Lupardo bill seeks expanded Student Journalist publication rights

Special to The Odessa File

ALBANY, Feb. 16, 2018 -- A new bill filed by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Senator Tom O’Mara would expand First Amendment rights for high school and college journalists by creating the “Student Journalist Free Speech Act.”

The proposed legislation, stemming from the "New Voices" movement, would give student journalists editorial control over their publications; currently in New York State, school administrators have final say in what is published.

“Student reporters are the next generation of journalists,” said Lupardo (D-Endwell). “It’s a difficult time to be a journalist as media across the country have come under attack. Having more control over what they publish will support journalistic integrity and independence which is what we need in a democratic society. I look forward to constructive debate as this legislation advances.”

"The role and the responsibility of a free press in American democracy is one of the most timely and serious examinations taking place in our society today,” said O’Mara (R, C, I-Big Flats). “I'm hopeful that the introduction of this legislation will constructively and instructively contribute to the discussion and, especially for aspiring journalists and their instructors and mentors, help heighten their appreciation and understanding of the First Amendment, the working press, and the protection and preservation of this ideal moving forward into the 21st century. I have appreciated the enthusiasm and input we've received from administrators, instructors, and students at the Corning Painted-Post High School."

The Student Journalist Free Speech Act (A9801/S7721) is the result of a grassroots movement known as "New Voices" which was initiated by student journalists and their academic supervisors. The New York legislation (A8333/S7355) was first proposed by Assemblyman Phil Palmesano and O’Mara, whose bill provided free speech protections to public high school students. The expanded O’Mara-Lupardo legislation affords protections to journalists at the high school and collegiate level, both public and private.

The Supreme Court’s 1988 Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier decision gave school administrators the ability to review, and ultimately censor, student publications. The Lupardo-O’Mara bill would still protect schools by exempting speech that is “libelous, an invasion of privacy, or incites students to commit an unlawful act, violate school policies, or to materially and substantially disrupt the orderly operation of the school.” Currently eight states have enacted legislation to protect journalists at public and private high schools and colleges; six more have protections in place for just high school reporters. Read more about New Voices at https://newvoicesus.com/.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (File photo)

O-M district gauging 3 Pre-K interest

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 13, 2018 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to attend a full-day three-year-old Pre-Kindergarten program this September.

If your child resides in the Odessa-Montour Central School District and will be three years old on or before December 1, 2018, he/she is eligible for this program. Transportation will be the responsibility of the parent.

To express your interest in the full-day three-year-old Pre-Kindergarten program, please call the school at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Friday, March 23, 2018.

Schuyler HeadStart also holds its own three-year-old program, which you may want to express interest in as well. Please call HeadStart at 535-6814.

O-M district is gauging Pre-K interest

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA Feb. 13, 2018 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to attend a full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten program this September.

If your child resides in the Odessa-Montour Central School District and will be four years old on or before December 1, 2018, he/she is eligible for this program.

To express your interest in the full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, please call the school at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Friday, March 23, 2018.

Schuyler HeadStart also holds their own four-year-old program, which you may want to express interest in as well. Please call HeadStart at 535-6814.

B.C. Cate sets kindergarten registration

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, Feb. 13, 2018 --The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to begin Kindergarten in September 2018. Your child is eligible if he/she will be five years old on or before December 1, 2018.

Kindergarten registration is scheduled for May 3-7. Parents will need to bring their child, child’s birth certificate, proof of residency and proof of child’s immunizations.

Please call the B C. Cate office at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Friday, March 23, 2018 to schedule an appointment for your child’s kindergarten screening.

Chamber announces scholarship topics

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 5, 2018 -- As it has for many years, the Business and Education Committee of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce is offering a $1,000 scholarship to any graduating senior who is a resident of Schuyler County or attends Bradford, Odessa-Montour, or Watkins Glen Central School Districts.

To apply, students must complete an application and submit a response by March 30 to one of the three topics selected by the committee. These topics are:

1. If you were to open a business in Schuyler County, what would it be? Why? Where would it be located? How would you cover the expenses of the business?

2. Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?

3. What are your thoughts on the evolution of the cell phone and/or social media?

Applicants may use one of three options to answer the topic questions: a 500-1500 word essay, a 3-to-5-minute video, and/or a slideshow (using Prezi or PowerPoint) of at least 12 slides.

Completed applications and accompanying responses must be submitted by March 30 to the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, 214 North Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891. For additional information, contact Rebekah Carroll at the Chamber at (607) 535-4300 or email: rebekah@watkinsglenchamber.com.

WGHS's Amber Updike earns STEM honor

Special to
The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN Jan. 11, 2018 -- Amber Updike, a 10th-grade student from the Watkins Glen Central School District, has been selected as the Student of the Month for November at the Greater Southern Tier STEM Academy.

“Amber strives for excellence and is always asking questions to better understand the material,” said teacher Melissa Houck. “She puts herself out there in order to learn from any mistakes and to embrace her failures to make a better product. She is a great example of work ethic and determination for the STEM Academy.”

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of STEM Academy staff based on nominations.

The Greater Southern Tier STEM Academy is a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH). P-TECH is a new model for secondary education that brings together the best elements of high school, college and the professional world. Students take the lead role in their learning, choosing pathways to their careers and taking college-level, credit-bearing courses from their first year.

Photo in text: Amber Updike is presented the Student of the Month award by STEM Academy Principal Rob Sherburne. (Photo provided)

The Ugliest Sweater contestants: From left, Hanlon Elementary School Principal Rob Francischelli, O-M High School Principal Skip McCarty, B.C. Cate Elementary School Principal Veronica Lewis, and O-M Superintendent Chris Wood.

Board decides who has the Ugliest Sweater

ODESSA, Dec. 15, 2017 -- It fell to the Odessa-Montour School Board at its meeting Thursday night to render judgment as to which of its administrators was adorned in the worst clothing of the evening -- more specifically, which one was wearing the Ugliest Sweater.

Ghastly outfits were on display by Hanlon Elementary School Principal Rob Francischelli, O-M High School Principal Skip McCarty, B.C. Cate Elementary School Principal Veronica Lewis, and O-M Superintendent Chris Wood.

They were wearing nightmarish holiday sweaters made, in the cases of Francischelli, McCarty and Lewis, by their teaching staffs; and in the case of Wood, by the district office staff. It was an idea born at B.C. Cate by Lewis's teaching team, no stranger itself to Ugly Sweater contests. But this time, Lewis said, the teachers thought a truly Ugliest Sweater contest involving administrators -- with sweaters devised by the most twisted staff minds available -- could be adjudged by the School Board.

The teachers who created the winning (or was it losing?) sweater selected by the board were to receive a breakfast in the faculty room prepared by Principal Lewis. If she had won, she would have fed her own staff. But she didn't. She was to fix it for the Hanlon staff.

For the Ugliest Sweater was worn, the Board decided, by none other than Hanlon's Francischelli, who looked like a walking fir tree, or perhaps an explosion of holiday roping.

He received half of the Board's half-dozen votes, and seemed pleased with the honor.

And why not? It was, after all, an award worth, ummm, savoring. Sort of like Christmas eggnog.

Well ... maybe not.

Anyway ... Will this contest become an annual event?

"We're thinking so," said Wood.

Members of the Watkins Glen 7th-8th Grade Band perform at Wednesday's concert.

O-M, Watkins Glen hold Winter Concerts

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Dec. 14 -- The Odessa-Montour and Watkins Glen High Schools were the sites Wednesday evening of a seasonal staple: Winter Concerts featuring 7th through 12 grade choruses and bands.

At O-M, in the Fetter-Brown Auditorium, the Junior High Band performed "Christmas at the Movies" and "Swahili Folk Hymn." Soloists included Kyleigh Bates, Paiton Bailey and Sarah Barr.

The Odessa-Montour Junior High Chorus sang "Pompeii" and "A Winter Song," and the Senior High Band followed with "Satiric Dances" (with solos by Kayla Dundas and Casey Underdown), "Sleep" (with solos by Meagan Terry, Hannah Rosier and Jacob Zimmer), and "Christmas Declaration."

The O-M Senior High Chorus then sang "Shalom, Pacem, Peace," "Seven Bridges Road," and Mozart's "Lacrymosa" before an Alumni and Faculty Combined Chorus sang "Carol of the Bells."

Jennifer Kraemer is director of the O-M bands. The chorus director is Ian MacDonald. Alex MacDonald served as accompanist.

At Watkins Glen, in the high school auditorium, the 7th-8th Grade Chorus sang "What a Wonderful World," "Loch Lomond" and "African Noel," the latter accompanied by Senior High Band percussionist Simon Wigmore on the bongos.

The 7th-8th Grade Band then played "America The Beautiful on Parade," "Chant, Chorale and Dance," and "Jingle Bell Rock" before the High School Chorus sang "How Can I Keep from Singing?" along with "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" (with soloists Jordyn Barrett and Jena Slater) and "Go, Tell It on the Mountain."

The High School Band then performed a "Trilogy: In Changing Times, Lament and The Final Journey," "Greensleeves" and "Carol of the Bells."

The Watkins Glen band director is Kelsey Melvin, while Matthew Craig directs the choruses. Renee Riley served as accompanist.

Photos in text:

From top: Members of the Odessa-Montour Senior High Chorus; the O-M Senior High Band; and the Watkins Glen 7th-8th Grade Chorus.

WGHS Principal Kai D'Alleva records a performance by the 7th-8th Grade Chorus.

New members of the O-M chapter of the National Honor Society pose after the ceremony. (Photo provided)

O-M inducts 10 into National Honor Society

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Dec. 7, 2017 -- The Odessa-Montour High School chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 10 new members Wednesday evening in a ceremony in the high school auditorium.

Eight members of the sophomore class were inducted: Samantha Dudgeon, Tassia Garrison, Ryan Griswold, Paden Grover, Derrick Lewis, Caleb Thomas, Grace Vondracek and Brett Walters. Two members of the junior class were also inducted: Tori Reese and William Yeater.

The students were inducted during a candlelight ceremony conducted by incumbent members of the chapter, and overseen by advisers Holly Campbell and Sadye Halpin. Principal Almon McCarty was on hand to share some words of wisdom with the inductees, and all attendees were invited to a reception afterward.

Bench donated

Members of the Watkins Glen High School Class of 1982 stand behind a bench the class has donated to the Watkins Glen Elementary School Playground. The photo was taken during the class reunion on Saturday, July 29, 2017. (Photo by Frank Spena, Jr.)

2 Glen students attend Training Institute as SCCUDD reps in battle against drug use

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Aug. 5, 2017 -- Representatives from the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs, including two Schuyler County teens, attended CADCA’s (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America's) 16th Annual Mid-Year Training Institute in Atlanta, Georgia recently.

“It was so exciting for us to be training with coalitions from all over the world and learning how to become strong leaders and change agents for our community,” said Kelsey Kernan, a student at Watkins Glen High School.

Amber Updike, another WGHS student, agreed. “I learned so many new things at this year’s Mid-Year Training Institute that we can bring back to Schuyler County," she said.

The week-long training, held at the Marriott Marquis, taught participants how to address one of our nation’s biggest public health challenges: drug use. CADCA’s Mid-Year Training Institute offers a number of courses geared toward helping participants find solutions to their community’s toughest substance use problems.

"The Mid-Year is a unique professional development opportunity for anyone trying to prevent and reduce drug use, and its related problems, in their community,” said Gen. Arthur T. Dean, CADCA's Chairman and CEO. “After four days of intensive training, participants return to their communities with new skills and strategies, and a clearer roadmap to create environments where young people can thrive.”

For more information about CADCA visit www.cadca.org

SCCUDD was formed in response to the Schuyler County Public Health Department’s Community Health Assessment concerning youth outcomes. Part of this Assessment included a public opinion survey that showed the number one health concern of Schuyler County residents was the use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. The mission of SCCUDD is to prevent, reduce and delay the onset of substance use among Schuyler County youth by collaborating with community partners, promoting prevention education and substance-free activities and implementing environmental strategies.

For more information, or to become involved with SCCUDD, visit it online at www.schuylercounty.us/sccudd, or follow SCCUDD on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo in text: Schuyler representatives Kelsey Kernan, left, and Amber Updike. (Photo provided)

O'Mara: Don't forget online reading program

Special to The Odessa File

ELMIRA, Aug. 1, 2017 -- At the start of the final month of summer vacation for area students, State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I--Big Flats) Tuesday issued a reminder that he is sponsoring an online summer reading program.

The program is promoted by the New York State Senate in partnership with the New York State Library and public libraries across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, and statewide.

“It’s the start of the final month of summer vacation and I’m glad to join so many local public libraries and other groups and organizations to encourage summer reading,” said O’Mara. “The Senate’s online summer reading program offers a convenient opportunity for students and their parents to enjoy the benefits and the rewards of summer reading together.
Our region is incredibly fortunate to have such an outstanding network of public libraries providing access to books and other reading activities, materials and opportunities.”

To participate in the Senate’s online program, students and parents can visit O’Mara’s Senate website, www.omara.nysenate.gov, and click on the “Summer Reading Program” logo on the home page. Among other features, the site includes a recording journal, opportunities to share books with other family members and friends, and a series of popular summer reading lists.

At the end of the program, participants will receive formal recognition from O’Mara for their reading achievement.

Numerous studies have shown that children who engage in summer reading make greater academic gains than children who do not.

According to New York State Library officials, last year’s summer reading program featured the participation of nearly 2 million young people statewide. Program coordinators at the New York State Library, Senate and Assembly hope that increased attention on the benefits of summer reading will result in expanded participation this year, said O'Mara..

More information on the “Summer Reading at New York Libraries” program, and on the importance of summer reading, is available on http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/.

Visit the website of the Southern Tier Library System, www.stls.org, for links to member libraries in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yate counties. The members of the Finger Lakes Library System, including Tompkins County, are online at www.flls.org.

Photo in text: State Senator Tom O'Mara (File photo)

Local youths attend Reality Check summit

Special to The Odessa File

CAZENOVIA, NY, July 27, 2017 -- Seven teen leaders from Elmira and Watkins Glen High School recently returned from the annual Reality Check of New York Youth Summit at Cazenovia College in Central New York.

Along with 150 other youths from around the state, they made plans for #SeenEnoughTobacco Day in October, to fight against what they see as the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry and their influence on youth tobacco use in their communities.

Watkins Glen High School students attending were freshmen Savannah Ayers and Hannah Hoose, and junior Amber Updyke.

Elmira High School students attending were junior Lee Dennery, and seniors Jahleea Dennery, Unique Hooks and Kendra Davis.

“The average age of a new smoker is just 13,” said Sunnie Smith, Reality Check Coordinator. “And, according to the U.S. Surgeon General, the advertising and promotional activities by tobacco companies cause the start and continuation of smoking among adolescents and young adults. That’s why we are fighting against the tobacco industry’s influence on youth in our region.”

“A number of New York communities have taken action to protect youth from tobacco marketing, but we’ve got more work to do -- and we’ve got the power to do it,” said Smith.

“In addition to areas around schools, tobacco companies market more heavily in low income areas," said Stacy Hills, Director of the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition. "So, it’s no coincidence that one of the highest smoking rates in the state is among people making less than $25,000 a year. The tobacco industry’s aggressive marketing in certain targeted communities is a social injustice, and it has to stop.”

#SeenEnoughTobacco Day on October 13, 2017 is the statewide day of action hosted by Reality Check of New York, a group of youth advocates who raise awareness of what they consider the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry. RC youth will host tobacco-free community activities and lead an online campaign to engage and educate community members and leaders about the importance of reducing youth exposure to tobacco marketing in order to be the first tobacco-free generation.

“As young people, we are vulnerable, and tobacco industry marketing takes advantage of that," said Jahleea Dennery of Elmira High School. "For example, stores near schools have almost three times the amount of tobacco ads than stores in other areas. We’ve seen enough tobacco promotions and smoking. The solution is to change our community so that tobacco and tobacco use is not the norm.”

Reality Check of New York empowers youth to become leaders in their community by exposing what they see as the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry. The organization’s members produce change in their communities through grassroots mobilization and education. Reality Check in this area is associated with the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition.

#SeenEnoughTobacco is an online campaign with the goal of safeguarding children from the billions of dollars of hard-hitting tobacco promotions in places where children see them. Parents, community leaders and others interested in protecting youth are encouraged to learn more at SeenEnoughTobacco.org.

Photo in text: Watkins Glen and Elmira high school students at Cazenovia College, site of the Reality Check youth summit. (Photo provided)

Hospital Auxiliary awards 3 scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, July 24, 2017 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary has awarded $1,000 scholarships to two high school graduates who are planning to enter the healthcare field, and one Schuyler Hospital employee furthering her healthcare education.

Jacob Carocci, son of Val and Jerry Carocci of Burdett, graduated as salutatorian from Watkins Glen High School. He will attend the University of Vermont to start his education toward becoming a physician.

Paxtyn Marie Brown, daughter of Jolene Horton of Odessa, graduated from Odessa-Montour High School. She will attend Daemen College to start her education toward becoming a physical therapist.

Clara Smith, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Schuyler Hospital’s Montour Falls Primary Care Center, plans to attend Tompkins-Cortland Community College to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Smith has been an employee at the hospital for over 5 years.

Scholarship awards are presented each year to graduating high school seniors who live or attend school in Schuyler County and plan to enter careers in the healthcare field, as well as Schuyler Hospital employees looking to continue their education in healthcare.

Awards are based on academic achievement, volunteerism, and personal essays. Previous recipients have been in such diverse fields as orthopedics, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, speech therapy, and pharmacy.

The Auxiliary awarded its first scholarship of $250 in 1990. Over the next 20 years it grew to three $1,000 scholarships. Funds for the awards are raised through the Auxiliary’s hospital gift shop and other fundraising events.

For more information about the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, call (607) 535-7121 or email info@schuylerhospital.org

Photo in text: The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary recently awarded $1,000 healthcare scholarships to (left to right) Clara Smith, Paxtyn Brown and Jacob Carocci. (Photo provided)

Arc awards $1,000 scholarship to Decker

WATKINS GLEN, June 30 -- The Arc of Schuyler awarded its Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship to Bradford Central School graduate Destiny Decker at its Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony on June 15 at Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

This $1,000 scholarship honors Joanne Hayes, former board member and president of The Arc of Schuyler’s board of directors who passed away in 1987. The award is given annually to a graduating senior pursuing an education in human services, special education, or a related field for a career providing supports to people with developmental disabilities.

Destiny Decker, daughter of Harold Decker, will enroll at Elmira College this fall to study biochemistry. In her application essay, Decker expressed her aspiration to become an OB/GYN to advocate for prenatal care and good health for all women.

Decker is valedictorian of her class. She has received many academic and athletic awards and honors, including the Elmira College Key Award. She has demonstrated leadership skills through her participation in National Honor Society, Student Council, and Academic All-Stars. In addition to her academic achievements, she also works at the Corning Museum of Glass.

Decker’s school counselor, Sarah Baker, commented, “Destiny is very much an advocate for people with developmental disabilities and makes a stand for equal treatment for everyone.”

The Joanne S. Hayes Memorial Scholarship is made possible through donations to The Arc of Schuyler, a not-for-profit organization providing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. For more information, visit arcofschuyler.org.

The bleachers were full, as were rows of chairs between the stands and football field.

Hundreds gather for memorial service
at WGHS football field for Ryan Pruitt

WATKINS GLEN, June 11, 2017 -- They gathered by the hundreds Sunday afternoon in the hot sun beside the Watkins Glen High School football field to honor the memory of Ryan Pruitt, a standout student-athlete at the school who died the previous Monday.

The bleachers on the east side of the field were filled, as were rows of chairs between the stands and the athletic field -- the field where Pruitt once excelled, in one football game amassing 337 yards rushing.

There were onlookers standing on either side of the full bleachers, too, listening to the speeches in Ryan's honor.

Pruitt, a senior who was also an exceptional track athlete as well as a dynamic cheerleader, was remembered by close friends, coaches, an administrator, a cousin and a pastor.

High School prinicipal Kai D'Alleva opened the ceremony with words about Ryan -- how he was "a model student athlete, and that's not an exaggeration, not hyperbole. He was truly a pleasure to be around each and every day, and he is sorely missed in the hallways of WGHS."

D'Alleva said that in reaction to Pruitt's death, an organization has been formed by teacher Ward Brower called "24" -- the number Ryan proudly wore on the football field.

"It has three tenets," said D'Alleva, for students in emotional need.

"Know that things will be better in 24 hours," D'Alleva said. "Second, there are at least 24 people available to talk to. And third, there are at least 24 people who love you and would be devastated to lose you ... Consider joining 24. Honor Ryan by trying to prevent another tragedy such as this."

A speech was then presented by close friend Amanda Pike, who said Ryan "had a heart of gold ... that guy who someone (else) will be compared to." His passing, she said, "is heartbreaking."

Coaches from his cheerleading team praised Ryan for his work ethic, his dedication, his determination, his smile, "and oh, that laugh." Members of the team performed an aerial maneuver on the football field in Ryan's honor.

Teacher and Senior Class Advisor Sam Brubaker said Ryan "was always willing to give his all in class" and to help others, and that "watching him compete" on the playing field "was inspiring." He said Ryan had "a big heart, a contagious laugh" ... and that with his death "there is a void in my heart."

Football coaches Trevor Holland, who coached Ryan this past season, and Lou Condon Jr., who coached him in seasons past, praised Ryan the player and person. Holland said Ryan "wore the number 24 proudly," and that "the things he did for us" on the football field "were memorable." He also told a TV reporter beforehand that Ryan was "a wonderful young man who other students looked up to."

Condon said Ryan showed "determination, reliability, dignity and respect" every day, and that his "speed and strength set him apart," but that he was an MVP because he made those around him better. "He helped other people realize how valuable they were or could be."

A cousin, John Wagner, called Ryan "an amazing young man" with "a shining personality" and "a spirit within that knew no boundaries." With his death, Wagner said, "there is a huge hole in our hearts and our souls."

And Pastor Micheal Spencer of His Tabernacle Family Church in Horseheads wondered, in the wake of this tragedy, "What happened? What happened to the one with the smile, the one with the laugh? One of the things we have to guard more than anything else is hope."

While "we can't understand why these things happen," Spencer said, he was sure that if Ryan "could stand here now, he would say 'Never lose hope.''' The pastor added that the 24 program organized by Brower will "let you know" in times of emotional distress "that there are people around you" willing to provide love and support.

After the speeches, 24 helium balloons were released to the sky in Ryan Pruitt's memory, and a long line formed for attendees to express their condolences to his family under a shelter at midfield.

Photos in text:

Top: A table near the reception tent at midfield.
Middle: The athletic field scoreboard carried Ryan's uniform number: 24.
Bottom: Members of the cheerleading team to which Ryan belonged performed an aerial maneuver in his honor.

Helium balloons were released skyward, from a point midway along the football field.

O-M presents its academic awards

ODESSA, June 6, 2017 -- Academic awards were presented to students at the Odessa-Montour High School during an assembly on June 5.

They were as follows:

CONNIE TORPY JONES MEMORIAL AWARD -- Paxtyn Brown

WELLS COLLEGE 21ST CENTURY LEADERSHIP AWARD -- LeNay Duet

HONOR ROLL
This award is presented to students who have been on the Honor Roll (84.5 average) the first five marking periods this school year.

Freshmen
Micah Brewster
Hannah Chapman
Ryan Griswold
Noah Hollenbeck
Deshawn Johnson
Lydia Lynch
Rhys Stermer

Sophomores
Hannah Bruno
Hunter Daugherty
Olivia Grover
Dylan Houseknecht
Tori Reese
Hannah Rosier
Nadia Simpson

Juniors
Taylor Alton
Noah Austin
Alec Betts
Noelle Chamberlain
Kayla Dundas
Mia Force-Russell
Curtis Harris
Erin Kleist
Shaunalynn Maddox
Nakiaha Robinson
Anna Ross
Bronwyn Stermer
William Tague
Meagan Terry

Seniors
Breeana Bentley
Tyler Bump
Alyssa Crout
Kyle Frasier
Andrew Fudala
Alexander Grady
Dasia Herrmann
Mitchell Scata
Nicholas Sgrecci
Kyle States
Taylor States
Britney Visscher

MATH DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Highest Algebra Regents Award -- Kennedey Heichel
Highest Geometry Regents Award -- Noah Brewster
Highest Algebra II Regents Award -- Cameron Bryington
Highest 4 Year Math Award -- Nicholas Sgrecci

TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Excellence in Technology -- Alex Grady, Cameron Bryington, Tyler Bump and Kyle States

HISTORY DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Excellence in Government -- Kyle States and Madison Morse
Excellence in Economics -- Cameron Bryington
Joseph Lemak Global Studies Award -- Nakiaha Robinson
Highest Global II Average -- Noah Brewster
Edward Banfi U. S. History Award -- Emelia Paulisczak
Highest Average in U.S. Histroy -- Colin Marsh

PHYSICAL EDUCATION BABE RUTH AWARDS -- Alyssa Crout and Nicholas Sgrecci

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Grade 11 -- Hailey Perraut and Almon McCarty
Grade 10 -- Jacqulyn Vincent and Noah Brewster
Grade 9 -- JoLynn Minnier and Caleb Thomas

USMC Scholastic Excellence Award -- Emelia Paulisczak

NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL TRIPLE C AWARD -- Nakiaha Robinson and Trey McCarty

ENGLISH AWARDS
English 9 Award -- Grace Vondracek
English 10 Award -- Noah Brewster
English 11 Academic Excellence Award -- Gillian Clark
English 12 Academic Excellence Award -- Madison Morse
ACE English Academic Award -- Sage Garrison

SPANISH AWARDS
Spanish II Achievement Awards -- Grace Vondracek and Derrick Lewis
Spanish III Achievement Awards -- McKennah Lott and Noah Brewster
Spanish IV Achievement Award -- Cheyenne Barrett and Colin Marsh
ACE Spanish Achievement Award -- Breeana Bentley
5 Year Spanish Awards -- Breeana Bentley, Emelia Paulisczak, Ethan Fellwock, Dasia Herrmann and Ashley Stewart

CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE AWARDS - HIGHEST AVERAGE FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR
Grade 9 -- Emily Ross
Grade 10 -- Noah Brewster
Grade 11 -- Colin Marsh

BAUSCH AND LOMB HONORARY SCIENCE AWARD -- Colin Marsh

BOYS STATE AWARDS -- Taylor Grover

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER FREDRICK DOUGLAS AND SUSAN B. ANTHONY AWARD -- Nakiaha Robinson

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Earth Science -- Jacqulyn Vincent
Living Environment -- Emily Ross
Chemistry -- Hailey Perraut

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER GEORGE EASTMAN LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Gillian Clark

KEUKA COLLEGE GEORGE H. BALL COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Taylor Grover, Cameron Adams, Kayla Dundas, Taylor Alton, and Trey McCarty

ELMIRA COLLEGE KEY AWARD -- Hailey Perraut and Curtis Harris

PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD
9th Grade -- Marisa Alton, Sara Gardner, Preston Harris, John Jelliff, Julia Paulisczak, Johnathan Sanders, and Cheianne Webster
10th Grade -- Tyler Carson, Olivia Grover, Jadyn Lauper, Dezirae Minnier, Jonah Thompson, and Jacqulyn Vincent
11th Grade -- Cameron Adams, Taylor Alton, Cheyenne Barrett, Alec Betts, Michael Carson, and Trevor Dunn

HIGH HONOR ROLL
This award is presented to students who have been on the High Honor Roll (89.5 average) the first five marking period this school year.

Freshmen
Samantha Dudgeon
Sara Gardner
Tassia Garrison
Paden Grover
Preston Harris
Derrick Lewis
Julia Paulisczak
Kara Reese
Emily Ross
Caleb Thomas
Grace Vondracek
Brett Walters

Sophomores
McKenzie Barrett
Noah Brewster
Tyler Carson
Hailey Ferguson
Kennedey Heichel
Jacy Knapp
McKennah Lott
Madison Randall
Maria Scata
Syria Tague
Jaqulynn Vincent
Kacie Wood

Juniors
Cheyenne Barrett
Heidi Casselberry
Gillian Clark
Kendra Heffner
Alyssa Lindsley
Colin Marsh
Almon McCarty
Hailey Perraut
Jaylin Rumsey
Carly Smith

Seniors
Cameron Bryington
Simonne DeWalt
Angelika Friis
Sage Garrison
Amanda Jones
Madison Morse
Emelia Paulisczak
Andrew Stevenson

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY COMPUTING MEDAL -- Colin Marsh and Carly Smith

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY AWARD -- Cheyenne Barrett and Curtis Harris

HUMBLE HUMANITARIAN AWARD -- McKenzie Barrett

SENIOR HIGH HEALTH EXCELLENCE AWARD -- Alyssa Lindsley

RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE STUDENT SAGE AWARD -- Erin Kleist and Meagan Terry

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER XEROX AWARD -- Trevor Dunn

PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE (Must have 90 average and College Entrance Exam Scores at or above the 85th Percentile) -- Emelia Paulisczak, Nicholas Sgrecci, Cameron Bryington and Ethan Fellwock

FOUR YEAR HONORS
(Seniors who have a 3-5/6 year average of 85 or above)

Jonathan Andrews
Breeana Bentley
Paxtyn Brown
Tyler Bump
Cameron Bryington
Alyssa Crout
Simonne DeWalt
Ethan Fellwock
Kyle Frasier
Andrew Fudala
Sage Garrison
Alexander Grady
Dasia Herrmann
Angela Hess
Amanda Jones
Kayla Loney
Madison Morse
Emelia Paulisczak
Collin Povoski
Mitchell Scata
Nicholas Sgrecci
Andrew Stevenson
Taylor Sykes
Britney Visscher

WGHS presents 7th, 8th grade awards

WATKINS GLEN, June 5 -- The following awards were presented to the Watkins Glen High School 7th and 8th grade students at an awards assembly on May 31, 2017.

7th Grade High Honor Roll Award:
Bailey Beaumont, Owen Bingham, Gavin Bond, Kaylynn Burke, Haley Carl, Douglas DiGregorio, Noah Gardner, Andrew Hayes, Zachary Hines, Cameron Holland, Madelynn Jones, Ashlyn Karius, Isabella LaFace, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Kellie Memoli, Sierra Morris, Kaylana Rekczis, Matthew Sandritter, Jade Scaptura, Owen Scholtisek, Jordannmarie Simpson, Maya Somerville, Benjamin Swinnerton, Kade Westervelt, Gaetono Williams, Melanie Wysocki, Robin Zimba.

7th Grade Honor Roll Award:
Breanna Carl, Ethan Day, Molly Dunham, Talon Elliott, Georgio Fazzary, Abigail Gibson, Kaila Hammond, Hannah Jitomir-Rowland, Katherine Larson, Zachary Naylor, Braden Pesco, Jacob Pierce, Mitchell Pike, Gwendolyn Reynolds, Emily Rhoads, Raeline Rider, Charlie Samuel, Kara Sheesley, Anya Simpson, Brandon Smith, Caleb Smith, Matthew Swarthout, Christa Taber, Jade Williams, Cloey Wratten, Ashley Youmans.

7th Grade ELA
Haley Carl, Zachary Hines, Isabella LaFace, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Gwendolyn Reynolds, Matthew Sandritter, Brandon Smith.

7th Grade Most Improved Math
Molly Dunham, Madelynn Jones, Ashlyn Karius, Katherine Larson, Kellie Memoli, Mitchell Pike, Anya Simpson.

Excellence in Pre Algebra 7
Douglas DiGregorio, Cameron Holland, Sierra Morris, Matthew Sandritter.

Excellence in Math 7
Brandon Smith

Perseverance in Math
Colby Thurston

7th Grade Science - EO Wilson Award
Gavin Bond, Brandon Smith.

Jane Goodall Award (Science)
Ashlyn Karius, Robin Zimba.

Alfred Russell Wallace (Science)
Douglas DiGregorio, Kellie Memoli.

Rachel Carson Award (Science)
Jade Scaptura, Owen Scholtisek.

Charles Darwin Award (Science)
Mason Lampman-Roisen
Matthew Sandritter

7th Grade Physical Education
Donner Bean, Michael Gee, Abigail Gibson, Kaila Hammond, Andrew Hayes, Cameron Holland, Hannah Jitomar-Rowland, Madelynn Jones, Travon Jones, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Kellie Memoli, Sierra Morris , Adam Pastore, Owen Scholtisek, Anya Simpson, Caleb Smith, Luke Spahalski, Colby Thurston, Melanie Wysocki.

7th Grade Social Studies
Owen Bingham, Douglas DiGregorio, Andrew Hayes, Cameron Holland, Ashlyn Karius, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Matthew Sandritter, Maya Somerville, Kade Westervelt, Robin Zimba.

7th Grade Technology
Daine Butler, Isabella LaFace, Mason Lampman-Roisen, Kellie Memoli, Brandon Smith, Robin Zimba.

Junior Honor Society Inductees
Carly Arnold, Kendall Gascon, Dallas Johnson, Maia Kamakawiwoole, Skylar Lagramada, Han Shun Liu, Faye Mooney, Sarah Schaffner, Jonah Sissel, Jenna Solmon, Joseph Sutterby, Julia Thorsland, Emmalise Updyke, Kayla Wood.

Health (7th Grade)
Owen Bingham, Gavin Bond, Molly Dunham, Georgio Fazzary, Abigail Gibson, Andrew Hayes, Cameron Holland, Raeline Rider, Benjamin Swinnerton, Gaetono Williams.

Rotary/Interact Service Above Self Award
Andrew Hayes, Matthew Sandritter.

8th Grade High Honor Roll Award
Christopher Berry, Maria Brubaker, Steven Cinelli, Jr., Timothy Clifford, Abby Congdon, Kelsey DeMillo, Natalie Edmister, Shannon Ervay, Maxwell Evans, Heidi Gardner, Brianna Hayes, Vanessa Heim, Mikayla Holmes, Bryce Kelly, Aislinn Klemann, Seamus Mooney, Dylan Morse, Genevieve Osborne, Kayla Palmer, Jasmine Searle, David Strait, Cale Sutterby, Brooke Usher, Amanda Wilbur.

8th Grade Honor Roll Award
Kaitlin Asbury, Savannah Ayers, Boyd Barber, Jack Chen, Devon Cummings, Taylor Cummings, Tanner Dunham, Silas Farrell, Jon Havel, III, Conner Novinsky, Nolan Ormsbee, Ava VanDusen, Nicholas Wilston, Nicholas Yaw.

Peter Galatis Award
Seamus Mooney

8th Grade Science Attitude Award
Amanda Wilbur

Science Leadership Award
Shannon Ervay

Science Out of the Box Award
Nicholas Wilston

8th Grade Math/or Algebra Award
Kelsey DeMillo, Vanessa Heim, Aislinn KIemann, Dylan Morse, Kayla Palmer, David Strait, Brooke Usher, Nicholas Yaw.

Mr. Michel’s Physical Education Class
Maria Brubaker, Abby Congdon, Devon Cummings, Aislinn Klemann, Seamus Mooney, Connor Novinsky, Kayla Palmer Ava VanDusen.

Mr. Brubaker’s Physical Education Class
Natalie Edmister, Matthew Irwin, Dylan Morse, Justin Rappleye, Amanda Wilbur.

Home and Careers
Maria Brubaker, Jack Chen, Brianna Hayes, Kayla Palmer.

8th Grade History
Shannon Ervay, Tim Clifford, Brianna Hayes, Bryce Kelly, Kayla Palmer, Amanda Wilbur.

8th Grade ELA
Highest Average
Tim Clifford, Kayla Palmer
Outstanding Work Ethic
David Strait, Amanda Wilbur.
Love of Literature
Shannon Ervay, Briana Hayes.
Triple C Award
Shannon Ervay, Bryce Kelly.
Comptroller Award
Jon Havel, III

8th Grade Spanish
Shannon Ervay, Briana Hayes, Mikayla Holmes, Dylan Morse, Kayla Palmer.

7th Grade Students Elected to 8th Grade Class Officers (Class of 2022)
President -- Cameron Holland
Vice-President -- Matthew Sandritter
Secretary -- Robin Zimba
Treasurer -- Mason Lampman-Roisen

WGHS presents awards at assembly

WATKINS GLEN, June 1, 2017 -- Watkins Glen High School presented various academic and athletic awards this week.

The awards and their recipients included:

Student Council Recognition:
Aidan DeBolt, Alexis Bingham, Courtney Irwin, Abigail Miller, Alyssa Arcangeli

Rotary Students of the Month Recognition: September - Jacob Carocci; October - Ruthe Gardner; November - Jacob Lokken; December - Courtney Irwin; January - Phebe Wickham; February - Rong Hang Lin; March - Patrick Hazlitt[ April - Aidan DeBolt; May - Brendan Neira; June - Angel Hamm

Interact/Rotary Service Awards:
President: Sara McManus
Vice President: Elise Allington
Secretary: Emilee Stephani

“Service Above Self” Award:
Seniors: Amanda Armstrong, Jacob Carocci, Nicholas Crosby, Patrick Hazlitt, Sara Morrissette, Samuel Hanley, and Moeko Oshima.
Juniors: Makenna Fraboni, Meghan Hayes, Daniel Paradiso, Hannah St. Julien, Jared Sandritter, Tanner Ryan, and Torie Hill.
Sophomores: Dylan Markley, Isabella Fazzary, and Joseph Chedzoy.
Freshman: Julia Delong and Peter Sandritter.

TIES Volunteer Awards: Courtney Irwin, Liza Carnes, and Sara McManus

Technology Awards Certificates: Alexander Gibson, Ashton Hill, and Jacob Lokken

Varsity Academic Marathon: Jacob Carocci, Alexander Gibson, Rong Hang Lin, Brienna Solomon, Cambria Weeden, and Phebe Wickham

University of Rochester:
Bausch & Lomb Science Honorary Award: Tanner Ryan
Fredrick Douglas & Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences & Humanities: Gabriella Decker
George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Hanley Elliott
Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology: Meghan Hayes

Elmira College Key Award: Kendra Larson and Torie Hill

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award: Clara Chedzoy and Meghan Hayes

Clarkson University Leadership Award: Kaitlyn Valla

Clarkson University Achievement Award: Daniel Paradiso

Rochester Institute of Technology Junior Awards:
Innovation & Creativity Award: Clara Chedzoy and Trevor Thurston
Computing Medal and Scholarship Program: Hanley Elliott and Tanner Ryan

Hobart and William Smith Colleges:
Finger Lakes Scholarship: Clara Chedzoy, Meghan Hayes, Tanner Ryan, Gabriella Decker, Trevor Thurston, Kaitlyn Valla, Hanley Elliott, and Emilia Bond

Sage College Merit Scholarship: Clara Chedzoy and Meghan Hayes

Keuka College:
The George H. Ball Community Achievement Award: Clara Chedzoy, Trevor Thurston, Torie Hill, Kendra Larson, and Jared Sandritter

Alfred University Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering Award for Academic Excellence: Kaitlyn Valla

Top Ten Recognition: Jacob Carocci, Ruthe Gardner, Sara Gardner, Alexander Gibson,
Rong Hang Lin, Jacob Lokken, Brienna Solomon, Payton Watson, Cambria Weeden, and Phebe Wickham

Boy’s State Recognition Awards: Tanner Ryan, Daniel Paradiso, Tyler Couch, Sean Holland, and Jackson Dunham

Math Recognition Awards:
Algebra Regents Award: Alexander Pesco
Geometry Regents Award: Joseph Chedzoy
Algebra II Regents Award: Clara Chedzoy

Ruth Warner Math Awards: Derrian Shepherd and Jazsmine Hudson

The Pulitzer Prize of Schuyler County, Excellence in Scholastic Journalism: Brianna Smith

iLead Recognition Awards: Maria Chedzoy, Ryan Clark, Tiffini Crissinger, Nicholas Crosby, Angel Hamm, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Hannah Matusicky, Sara McManus, Brendan Neira, Brianna Smith, Kayla Smith

Francis W. Blake Sportsmanship Awards: Samuel Hanley and Brienna Solomon

Barb Hughey Physical Education Award: Aidan DeBolt and Alyssa Arcangeli

Water Safety Award: Ruthe Gardner

Senecas Football Award: Jordan Dillenbeck

Track & Field Award: Isobel Scheffey and Patrick Hazlitt

Athletic Service Award: Alex Schimizzi

Dr. Arthur J. Jackson Award: Cambria Weeden and Jacob Carocci

Coach Joseph J. Lemak, Sr. Award: Amanda Pike and Patrick Hazlitt

T.J. O’Rourke Award: Aidan DeBolt

James Angelo, Sr. Basketball Award: Connor Seeley-Ion and Maxwell Schimizzi

Chemistry Regents Award: Clara Chedzoy

Gerald Loughlin Biology Regents Award (Living Environment): H. Nathaniel Rose

Physics Regents Award: Phebe Wickham

Earth Science Regents Award: Thomas Nelson

AP Achievement Award: Ruthe Gardner

English Regents Award: Phebe Wickham

Kate LaMoreaux Lover of Literature Award: William Fitzsimmons

Dugo-Bahns U.S. History Regents Award: Thomas Nelson, Clara Chedzoy, Jared Sandritter, and Tanner Ryan

Bahns-Dugo Global History Regents Award: William Fitzsimmons, Jacob Carocci, and Ruthe Gardner

Marie Fitzsimmons Student Humanitarian Award: William Fitzsimmons

Melissa B Wilson Basketball Award: Amanda Pike

National Honor Society Awards:
NHS Presidential Award: Jacob Carocci
NHS Service Award: Courtney Irwin
NHS Leadership Award: Courtney Irwin
NHS Scholarship Award: Cambria Weeden
NHS Character Award: Sara Morrissette

YEARBOOK DEDICATION: Ms. Wojtus, Mr. Brubaker, Ms. Wood and Mr. Chicken

Student Council Officer Results:
President: Julian Thornton
Vice-President: Trevor Thurston
Secretary: TBD
Treasurer: Joseph Chedzoy

Photos in text: Award recipients included, from top: Clara Chedzoy, shown with teacher Barbara Coon, and Meghan Hayes, Jacob Carocci, Alex Gibson and Brienna Solomon, each shown with High School Principal Kai D'Alleva.

The 20-member Watkins Glen boys cross country team poses with State Senator Tom O'Mara, left, and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, right.

School assembly, resolution honor WG's
state-champion boys cross country team

WATKINS GLEN, May 27 -- Ninth through 12th graders filed into the Watkins Glen High School auditorium Friday afternoon for an assembly held to honor the school's boys varsity cross country team -- winner of New York State and Federation championships last fall.

Speeches by the team coach, John Fazzary, by Superintendent Tom Phillips and by State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano highlighted the gathering, with O'Mara and Palmesano -- currently with time off from their Albany jobs -- bringing along a resolution from the State Legislature that paid tribute to the team's achievements.

The event followed by 17 days a visit by the school's other state championship team -- the girls varsity basketball team -- to Albany, where they too received a special resolution. Said O'Mara at the time, the visit presented "the opportunity to introduce the Senecas to our Senate and Assembly colleagues." Superintendent Phillips and Athletic Director Rod Weeden accompanied the girls' team to the State Capitol.

Palmesano said the cross country team did not visit Albany after it won its title because the Legislature was not in session during that part of the year. Friday's assembly, he said, gave the team the opportunity to be honored before their schoolmates and community. The assembly was open to the public, and a number of team members' parents were on hand to photograph the event.

The cross-country team, 20 members strong, won the school's first-ever team state title -- a New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class C championship -- on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at Chenango Valley State Park. A week later, on November 19 at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, the team won the New York Federation Cross Country Championship. That latter involved schools of all classes and both private and public educational institutions.

The team was greeted upon its return with the state title by a couple of hundred fans who celebrated the event in the WGHS Field House. A school gathering was later held in the Field House at which the team was honored.

The team consisted of 20 members: Jacob Carocci, Tyler Couch, Clint Craven, Max Evans, Alex Gibson, Steven Gublo, Sam Hanley, Patrick Hazlitt, Elliott Holland, Sean Holland, Isaac McIlroy, Daniel Paradiso, Aaron Planty, Gabe Planty, Shawn Rutledge, Tanner Ryan, Julian Thornton, Sam Thorsland, Conlin Wysocki and William Yeater.

Eight of those runners competed at the State and Federation Championships: Jacob Carocci, Sam Hanley, Patrick Hazlitt, Sean Holland, Daniel Paradiso, Aaron Planty, Gabe Planty and Shawn Rutledge.

All 20 were called to the stage Friday, and photos accordingly taken with O'Mara and Palmesano flanking the runners.

In the speeches beforehand, Fazzary spoke of the season and of coaching the team as "a real highlight of my life," while Phillips, retiring this year, thanked the team and said: "What a way to send me out."

Palmesano said it was "a privilege for us to be here" and that "we wanted to come here in your own backyard, and in front of the community and your peers, to congratulate you."

O'Mara said he was "proud to stand here today ... to honor you on behalf of the entire Legislature." He praised the boys for "the pride you brought to your community," and concluded that the championships were "a job well done."

O’Mara and Palmesano displayed the framed resolution -- Legislative Resolution SR2373 unanimously adopted by the New York Senate and Assembly -- and presented each team member with a copy. The Resolution reads, in part, “Coach John Fazzary and all of the outstanding athletes on the Watkins Glen Boys Varsity Cross Country Team have clearly utilized dedication, determination and teamwork in providing a lasting contribution to the spirit of excellence which is a tradition of their school.”

Photos in text:

Top: State Senator Tom O'Mara, left, with the Legislative Resolution, and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano with an Assembly Proclamation honoring the cross country team.

Middle: State Senator Tom O'Mara shakes hands with team member Shawn Rutledge as teammate Gabe Planty watches.

Bottom: WGHS Athletic Director Rod Weeden and cross-country Coach John Fazzary at Friday's assembly.

The 20 National Honor Society inductees gather on the stage after the ceremony.

20 inducted into National Honor Society

WATKINS GLEN, May 18 -- Twenty Watkins Glen High School students were inducted Wednesday night into the school's chapter of the National Honor Society in a ceremony held in the Watkins Glen Elementary School auditorium.

The emcee was chapter president Jacob Carocci. Candles were lit representing the four values of the NHS -- Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character --- by NHS members Payton Watson, Aidan DeBolt, Courtney Irwin and Alex Gibson.

Each inductee was introduced by an existing chapter member.

The new inductees are Kayla Marie Smith, Hannah Morse, H. Nathaniel Rose, Makenna Fraboni, Kathleen Clifford, Isabella Fazzary, Allison Gibson, Emilee Stephani, Megan Hazlitt, Wyatt Brower, Danielle Leszyk, Abigail Donelson, Wrett Brower, Kai Sutterby, Dylan Markley, Trevor Thurston, Matthew Herold, Casen Weeden, Annika Wickham and Joseph Chedzoy.

They joined previously chosen members Amber Benjamin, Emilia Bond, Jacob Carocci, Clara Chedzoy, Aidan DeBolt, Gabriella Decker, Hanley Elliott, Ruthe Gardner, Sara Gardner, Alex Gibson, Meghan Hayes, Patrick Hazlitt, Courtney Irwin, Ryanna LaMoreaux, Sara McManus, Abigail Miller, Sara Morrissette, Daniel Paradiso, Tanner Ryan, Isobel Scheffey, Jazmin Shea, Brienna Solomon, Kaitlyn Valla, Payton Watson, Cambria Weeden, Phebe Wickham and Simon Wigmore.

After the introductions, the inductees, now donned in robes and each carrying a candle, lined up on the stage for the National Honor Society pledge and for group photos. Cookies and water were then available during a reception in the hallway outside the auditorium.

Photos in text:

Top: Abigail Donelson dons her National Honor Society robe.
Bottom: National Honor Society president Jacob Carocci.

From left: Hannah Morse, H. Nathaniel Rose, Isabella Fazzary, Kayla Marie Smith.

From left: Kai Sutterby, Kathleen Clifford, Casen Weeden, Annika Wickham.

From left: Joseph Chedzoy, Abigail Donelson, Danielle Leszyk, Makenna Fraboni.

From left: Matthew Herold, Wyatt Brower, Allison Gibson, Wrett Brower.

From left: Dylan Markley, Megan Hazlitt, Emilee Stephani, Trevor Thurston.

Before the prom. From left, Maddie Suddaby, Lexi Castellaneta and Jena Slater.

Some photos from the WGHS prom

SCHUYLER COUNTY, May 16, 2017 -- Saturday night, May 13, marked the annual prom held by Watkins Glen High School at the Logan Ridge facility overlooking Seneca Lake in Hector.

Young men in tuxedos and young women in gowns went to dinner beforehand and then to the prom -- a gathering place for music, dancing, and camaraderie, an event that those attending will likely remember for the rest of their lives.

Some readers -- in the absence an The Odessa File photographer at the prom -- sent along a few photos of the night. We present them here.

Photo in text: At the pier. From left, Jake Johnson, Cierra Barber, Danielle Leszyk and Seth Swinnerton.

From left: Alex Gibson, Courtney Irwin, Jake Lokken, Kathleen Swinnerton, Chad Hunter.

Ten prom-bound students pose after dinner at the Stonecat Cafe in Hector.

Left: From left, Danielle Wise, Nick Alexander, Phillip Wise and Katlyn Kernan. Right: Taylor Kelly and Dalton Cummings.

A half-dozen tuxedo-clad young men pose for a pre-prom photo.

Emergency personnel wheel an "injured" student to the Guthrie Air helicopter.

Simulation offers prom message to students: Don't drink and drive, don't text and drive

WATKINS GLEN, May 12 -- A two-car crash brought on by drinking and the distraction of texting. Law enforcement, a fire department with Jaws of Life extraction equipment, and a helocopter to carry injured to the hospital. And bodies: two covered corpses.

Watching all of this -- a simulation Friday morning overseen by the Watkins Glen High School chapter of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) -- were the school's junior and senior classes, standing as a group on the south end of the parking lot at the rear of the WGHS complex off 12th Street.

The two cars utilized were donated for the exercise by Southern Tier Auto of Monterey, which delivered the vehicles and was removing them afterward -- after rescue personnel had carved them up to remove the "injured" and "dead" from the vehicles. Those roles were filled by WGHS students, complete with makeup applied that morning.

Nearby, the driver of one of the cars -- actually senior Katherine Taylor, the project's makeup artist and, with fellow student Sara Morrissette, credited as key SADD members involved in the event's planning -- was being given a breathalyzer test and "arrested" by village patrolman Jesse Wilson. Taylor was handcuffed and placed in a patrol car after "failing" the test.

The Guthrie Air helicopter donated its time and its equipment, too, and participated in the exercise, wheeling an "injured" passenger on a stretcher, moving the student from one of the vehicles over to the chopper parked on the open lawn nearby.

Watching all of this were the students, to whom School Resource Officer David Waite explained various aspects of the event as it proceeded. He had organized the law enforcement and emergency services aspect of the simulation, and praised Guthrie Air for donating its expertise and equipment, which under normal circumstances costs thousands of dollars.

"And they're coming back next week for Career Day," he said, marveling at the generosity.

Waite summarized the scene to the students as the simulation neared its end.

"The weather today is good," he said. "But what if it was bad? Everything you see here would slow down, making matters even worse.

"I hope you guys plant this memory in your minds for tomorrow night (prom night at Logan Ridge) and for the rest of your lives."

SADD also conducted a Grim Reaper Day this week in the school, whereby a student dressed in black and with a face painted to resemble a skeleton, would enter a classroom every half hour or so and tap a student on the shoulder. That student would leave, don a black robe, be made up to look dead-white, and return to class in complete silence -- signifying his or her loss to classmates through accident and death.

Said one SADD representative: "We hope that all of this impresses them at least in the short term, for this weekend."

Added a member of the Guthrie Air crew to the kids: "This is a simulation, but we see this kind of thing" -- and she waved toward the wrecked cars and two "bodies" covered on the ground, their feet sticking out -- "all the time in our work. It's real."

Photos in text:

Top: WGHS senior Katherine Taylor, in charge of the simulation's makeup, is given a breathalyzer test by Patrolman Jesse Wilson before being "arrested." She was handcuffed and then placed in a police car until the end of the simulation.

Second: School Resource Officer David Waite addresses the students.

Third: Rescuers work to extract an "injured" student from one of the cars.

Fourth: A "body" -- a participating student -- is covered, simulating a fatality.

The two cars used. The scenario was that both drinking and texting were involved, with one driver distracted by texting as the two vehicles collided at an intersection.

Check presented for Summer Rec

A $15,000 donation to help keep the Summer Recreation program at Clute Park going this year was presented Tuesday to the Watkins Glen School District by the Cargill firm, which often supports community projects. Present for the event were Keith Klug, Cargill's Watkins Glen plant manager, and Jerry Dunlavey, the Cargill Cares Committee Chair. Also on hand were Watkins Glen Mayor Sam Schimizzi and other members of the Watkins Glen Village Board, which worked with the school district to keep the program operational. Pictured from left, seated, were School Board members Kris Clarkson and Gloria Brubaker, Superintenent Tom Phillips, School Board president Kelly McCarthy and School Board member Mark Franzese. Standing from left were School Board member Barb Schimizzi, Cargill's Dunlavey, Village Board members Laurie DeNardo and Gary Schimidt, Mayor Schimizzi, Village Board member Kevin Thornton, Cargill's Klug, and School Board members Kristin Hazlitt and Keith Caslin. For a summary of the meeting, click here.

Rotary scholarship applications available

SCHUYLER COUNTY, May 3, 2017 -- Applications for The Watkins-Montour Rotary Club's 2017 Scholarships are now available.

The $1,000 scholarships are awarded to a graduating senior in each of the Watkins Glen and Odessa-Montour School Districts -- students who will be pursuing higher education and who have what Rotary describes as "a strong focus on Rotary’s mantra, 'Service Above Self.'"

Applications, which can be picked up at the high school Guidance Offices, must be returned to those offices by June 5.

Sykes named CTE Student of the Month

Special to The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, April 30 -- Taylor Sykes, an Odessa- Montour High School senior in the Early Childhood program, has been selected as a Career and Technical Education Program Student of the Month for February at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

Also named was Caleb Wood, an Elmira High School junior in the Conservation program.

“Taylor has been an inspiration to her peers,” said Instructor Amy Warner. “She never hesitates to step up and help others who are struggling. She demonstrates empathy for others and never looks for recognition or rewards.”

Taylor competes with the campus SkillsUSA chapter and volunteers for events on campus. She will attend Corning Community College next year to study social work.

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Taylor Sykes, center, a senior in the Early Childhood program, accepts the Student of the Month award from CTE Assistant Principal Rob Sherburne and Instructor Amy Warner. (Photo provided)

Envirothon competitors from Schuyler County pose for a group photo. (Photo provided)

Bradford wins Schuyler Envirothon title

Special to
The Odessa File

OWEGO, April 27, 2017 -- Bradford Central School was the Schuyler County winner of the Regional Envirothon held Thursday at the Tioga County Sportsmen’s Association Center.

“The Crooked Arrows” team (Cody Padgett, Sara Thompson, Montana Towner, Colton Towner, and Brooke Tremaine) came in first out of six teams from Schuyler County and were third overall out of the 28 teams competing from five counties: Schuyler, Chemung, Broome, Tioga and Tompkins.

The Odessa-Montour “Martens” (Andy Ink, Cameron Jensen, Erin Kliest, Colin Marsh, and Hailey Perraut) came in second for Schuyler County and the O-M “Octupi” (Gillian Clark, Ethan Fellwock, Sage Garrison, Colin Povoski and Nick Sgrecci) came in third among the Schuyler teams.

Two Odessa-Montour students were on the second- and third-place teams for Chemung County: Dan Minnier for the “Vicious Voles” (second) of GST (Greater Southern Tier) BOCES and Kyle Frasier on the “Radical Raccoons” (third) for GST BOCES.

“The Crooked Arrows” will represent Schuyler County at the 28th NYS Envirothon at Hobart & William Smith Colleges on May 25 and 26.

This hands-on, environmental education competition is organized by the Soil and Water Conservation Districts. A total of 30 Schuyler students were involved in the Regional event this year.

The Envirothon is an annual program in which teams of high school students from across the region and then the state and, ultimately, the nation put their knowledge and understanding of natural resource issues to the test. Students participate in a series of field station tests in the areas of soils/land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and an emerging environmental issue. The 2017 current environmental issue is “Agricultural Soil and Water Conservation Stewardship.”

The 2017 Envirothon was made possible through the contributions of sponsors and partnering agencies. Essential assistance is provided by the school science teachers, the school districts and also local businesses who donate funds for financial support. This year’s Schuyler County Envirothon sponsors, to date, are: Cotton-Hanlon Inc., Watkins Glen Elks Lodge #1546, Reisinger’s Apple Country LLC, Montour Falls Moose Lodge #426, David L. Sidle Insurance Agency, Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association, Seneca Lodge, Kimball Realty, and the Watkins Glen Fire Company.

The Bradford teams are coached by science teacher Rebecca Schrader; the Odessa-Montour teams by high school science teacher Doug Chapman; and the BOCES teams by Matt Bryant.

The Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District provides programs and services to help residents and communities manage and protect the natural resources of Schuyler County.

Photos in text:

Top: The Bradford “The Crooked Arrows,” Schuyler County-winning Envirothon team. From left: Sara Thompson, Montana Towner, Colton Towner, Cody Padgett and Brook Tremaine.

Second: The Odessa-Montour “Martens,” second-place Envirothon team for Schuyler County. From left: Colin Marsh, Cameron Jensen, Andy Ink, Erin Kliest and Hailey Perraut.

Third: The Odessa-Montour “Octupi” -- third place Envirothon team for Schuyler County. From left: Ethan Fellwock, Colin Povoski, Sage Garrison, Gillian Clark and Nick Sgrecci.

Bottom: Dan Minnier, second from the right, of Odessa was part of the GST BOCES “Vicious Voles” team shown here identifying trees at the forestry station.

Superintendent Tom Phillips and Board President Kelly McCarthy at Tuesday's meeting.

Watkins School Board appoints Kelahan next superintendent, OKs budget plan

4 candidates vying for 3 Board seats in May 16 election

WATKINS GLEN, April 19 -- The Watkins Glen School Board Tuesday night unanimously approved the appointment of Gregory K. Kelahan as the successor to retiring Superintendent Tom Phillips.

Kelahan, superintendent of the Oriskany Central School District in Oneida County since Jan. 1, 2010, was appointed Tuesday to serve first as Deputy Superintendent before taking over when Phillips' reign officially ends as his sick and vacation days expire. Phillips said that will be no later than Oct. 16.

Kelahan (pictured at right), selected from a small pool of candidates invited back by the Board for second interviews, was unable to attend the meeting because he is in London, England, visiting a daughter participating in a program there. He sent the following message to Board President Kelly McCarthy:

"Although I'm 3,500 miles away, please know that my heart and head are already in Watkins Glen. It is my honor and privilege to be joining an accomplished and forward-thinking organization such as this, and I look forward to serving the school and community of Watkins Glen."

Kelahan, who started his career in education as a teacher in the Gouverneur and Fayetteville-Manlius school districts, had -- McCarthy noted -- "been a staff and curriculum development specialist in the Madison-Oneida BOCES, an elementary principal and district curriculum leader in the Madison school district and assistant superintendent in Cazenovia" before assuming his duties at Oriskany.

"His experience in diverse educational organizations at all levels," McCarthy said, "has given him a broad school perspective and an intimate understanding of the needs of each developmental level. Greg holds degrees from SUNY Cortland, Syracuse University and SUNY Buffalo."

Added Board member Mark Franzese:

"Greg has some big shoes to fill following the retirement of Tom Phillips, and he is aware of that.

"We want to thank the parents, teachers and administrators for the input when we started the search. It truly helped to guide us.

"As this was a closed search, Tom was not involved in our process to select Greg in any way.

"We as a School Board take full responsibility for the outcome of this selection and feel we have selected an outstanding person of character as our next superintendent."

McCarthy noted that since the selection process was a closed one, no names of any other candidates would be released.

The budget:

The School Board gave its blessing to a $27,220,200 spending plan to be voted on by district residents on May 16. That is 2.49% more than the 2016-17 spending plan.

The tax levy under the 2017-18 plan is set at 9,508,760, a 3% increase from the 2016-17 total of 9,231,806. This comes when anticipated enrollment is down 2.83%, from 1,096 students in the current school year to 1,065.

However, the overall tax rate is expected to go down 27 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation due to an increase in assessments.

The Board candidates:

There are four candidates who submitted petitions by Monday's deadline to run for a trio of three-year seats on the School Board on May 16.

Three of the candidates are incumbents:

--Gloria Brubaker, who has served on the Board for the past 12 years and held a Board seat for four years in the late 1980s.

--Kris Clarkson, who is completing his first three-year term.

--Keith Caslin, who is also completing his first three-year term.

The newcomer is Tracey VanSkiver (pictured at right), a mother of three children (4th grade, 2nd grade and pre-K) in the school district. VanSkiver, whose husband Eric is an engineer at Corning, Inc., grew up in the Watkins district and graduated from WGHS. She currently works part-time in the school district as a monitor and sub.

VanSkiver, who with her husband moved away (to Indianapolis) for several years and then back to Watkins Glen, said she is "excited to run" and wants "to help make changes" down the road that will help the district, the community and its children flourish.

"We have a great community, and a wonderful school district with great teachers," she said, noting that she wants "to be part of that" as the district and community evolve.

"The school helps bring the community together," she said. "I want to help keep that positive going." While she will have "a lot to learn" as a Board member, she says she has a lot to contribute.

"I feel I can bring new ideas to the school," she said.

Photos in text: Gregory Kelahan and Tracey VanSkiver

The Watkins Glen girls varsity basketball team at the Walk of Fame ceremony held Wednesday morning before the entire student body in the school Field House.

School gathering celebrates state title brought home by Watkins Glen girls

WATKINS GLEN, March 22, 2017 -- The Watkins Glen High School girls basketball's Comeback Kids were celebrated once more Wednesday, this time by the school's entire student body gathered for an early-morning assembly in the WGHS Field House.

There was music -- "We Are The Champions" -- and there were speeches, and a big video presentation on the wall of Hannah Morse's state title-winning buzzer beater, the shot that defeated Port Jefferson in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class C championship game Sunday.

The 8:30 a.m. assembly kicked into gear with the basketball team, and its coaches, introduced one by one, entering the Field House through a door in the portable wall on the south end of the gym, and making their way to a point in front of an elevated podium at the north end.

The players and coaches stood there, shoulder to shoulder, in front of paper stars on the floor before them. The stars, each with a player's name, constituted the Walk of Fame, items later to be laminated and displayed. But before this ceremony was over, something would be added to each star: the signature of the person whose name appeared on it.

There were stars for Head Coach Alicia Learn and assistant coaches Scott Morse, Bub Chaffee and Ralph Diliberto.

And there were stars for the players: Ryanna LaMoreaux, Hannah Morse, Makenna Fraboni, Clara Chedzoy, Amanda Pike, Katlyn Kernan, Emmie Bond, Taylor Kelly, Mariah Gonzalez, Julia Reilly, Mikenna Ayers, Kendra Larson and Jazmin Shea.

The same sort of ceremony was held after the school's boys cross-country team returned with a state title in the fall. That was the school's first-ever team state championship, and now it has two.

Among the speeches were one by Bond, the state tourney MVP and a school leader; and by Ralph Diliberto, one of the team's assistant coaches.

In his speech, Diliberto quoted Theodore Roosevelt, adding references to females:

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man, or woman, stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man or woman who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself or herself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he or she fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his or her place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

Diliberto then added:

"The mark of a champion, is one who is balanced with pride and humility. Who loses with grace and poise, and wins with class and honor. Respect, diligence and integrity make up their fabric. When one of their teammates are down, they are there to pick them up. When a mistake is made in the contest, they push on to the next play.

"In order to be a champion, you must think like one, train like one, go the extra mile like one. Doing the drills coaches prescribe and one more, to take the extra set of exercises. To be strong mentally, emotionally and physically.

"Always keeping your head up no matter what, in the eye of adversity, because on the other side of adversity you will find what you have been looking for, training for; the goal that you have set for yourself is within your grasp.

"This season you exemplified all that I just stated, you were and still are a perfect storm of balance and talent, and when the dust cleared, dear ladies, you became the 2017 Class C state champions. May your values continue in this regard. I am truly proud of you all. May God bless you."

Bond, in her speech, described the championship weekend:

"I just want to give you all a glimpse into what a ride this season has been. Ever since practice started back in November and coach had us set goals, we all instantly had 'state title' come to mind. We had come so close in the previous years and we just knew what we had to do to get there this time. With two sectional titles already under our belt, we were motivated. Like Coach Bub (Chaffee) always said before every game, "this is the next step." However, the season wasn't always the most enjoyable. We suffered injuries, we fought at times, and had two mid-season losses, but that never stopped us. We aren't like other teams. Most would let the pressure and losses get to them, but not us. Every day, every practice, every tournament and every game was a chance to improve ourselves. We knew every time we stepped on that court what we had to do. Each and every girl on this team has worked so hard and deserves every bit of recognition for this state title.

"This past weekend is a time I know our team will never forget. Saturday we played Mekeel Christian Academy. We came out with such intensity and fire under our feet, the game seemed like it was made for us. We played as a team and were able to get seven girls on the stat sheet in a state semifinal game. After getting that win, we were excited, but we knew it wasn't over yet. The game following ours was the second qualifier game for Class C. The winner of this game would be our matchup for the next day. It was our neighbors, South Seneca, playing Port Jefferson out of Long Island. We knew South Seneca was tough, being the defending Class C state champs from last year. The game was intense and South Seneca played so hard, but when the final buzzer sounded it was Port Jefferson with the win.

"Heading back to our hotel that night, we couldn't stop thinking about playing Port Jeff. The matchups and plays were running through our heads. Sunday morning came and it was go time. We packed our bags and piled on the bus, planning on being the next Class C state champs when we got back on. When the time came to suit up, you could feel the nerves and butterflies. We knew this game was a big deal and we didn't want to let ourselves, our coaches or any one of you down. Not to mention, we didn't want to let our seniors down."

She then praised the two seniors, Mikenna Ayers ("one of the most positive and supportive teammates I've ever had") and Amanda Pike: "I'm so happy that we were all able to put our work in and hold up our end to get you this title. Be proud of what you've done."

"Anyway, back to the game," Bond said. "Immediately after tipoff, we were doing great. We got five points up on the board in only a few minutes and we kept the tenacity high on defense. However, we started getting in foul trouble, had to go back into a half-court defense, and that's when Port Jeff started to take the lead. Every time it seemed like we were closing the gap, they'd hit a 3 or get an and-one on us. We were fighting, but it seemed like everything turned against us. The fourth quarter came and we were down by 16.

"The crowd was loud and we weren't giving up. We knew what we could do in eight minutes and gave it all we had. We went back into our full-court press and great steals were made by Pike and Hannah, who were able to get themselves or other players like Mar and Ched to the line. With around 20 seconds left, Pike was on the line and made two foul shots to tie it. Port Jeff inbounded and due to great hustle, Mariah forced a Port Jeff player into a travel turnover. Coach called a timeout and that advanced us to half court.

"As usual, she drew up a play. It was intended for Pike if she was open on the wing but if not, Hannah would be in charge of taking it to the basket. The crowd was going wild by this point, but we never lost focus. With 8 seconds left Pike inbounded it and was instantly guarded from receiving the ball back. So Hannah got past not one, not two, but three defenders and took the purest raindrop shot while running baseline. I stood under the basket as the ball bounced around, and it felt like the world stopped. As the buzzer sounded it fell in and the gym erupted with fans cheering. Our whole team stormed the court ...

"Instant tears of joy flooded our eyes. We did it, we are the state champs. In that last quarter we scored 28 points to Port Jefferson's 10. It was like we were out of a movie. After getting awards and interviews were finished, it was those of you who came up to see us who really made the moment special. The support was overwhelming and we couldn't be any more thankful, for all of the fans, family and friends who had our backs. And also a big thank you to the support and escorts from Ovid, Hector, Burdett and Watkins as we made our way back for the celebration. Furthermore, a big shout-out to Nan Fraboni (of the Sports Boosters, and mother of one of the players, Makenna Fraboni), who is like a mother to me and someone who made that celebration happen and provided us so many snacks for the bus ride.

"All in all, I'd like to finish by saying this is one of the best experiences I've ever had in my life. I can't thank these girls and coaches enough for everything they've done. I wouldn't have wanted to do it with anyone else. There was so much more I could've said and so many memories to cherish and jokes to tell, but I'll end with this message to all of you athletes who are going to have the chance to do something great like this one day: Remember, you are your biggest enemy. If you say you can't, you never will. If you don't believe in yourself, how do you expect anyone else will? You control your fate. Give it all you've got and you can do anything you set your mind to. I see a bright future ahead for Watkins Glen athletes. Let this title motivate you and drive you. Nothing is impossible."

Photos in text:

Top: Hannah Morse left, and Amanda Pike sign their Walk of Fame stars.
Second: Coach Alicia Learn, carrying the state championship plaque, greets one of the many young students on hand for Wednesday's celebration.
Third: Assistant Coach Ralph Diliberto presents his speech.
Fourth: The team concludes the celebration with a circle cheer. (Photo by Don Romeo)
Fifth: Emmie Bond presents her speech.
Sixth: The players greet young Watkins Glen students after the celebration.
Seventh: Coach Alicia Learn is flanked by the team's two seniors, Mikenna Ayers, left, and Amanda Pike. (Photo by Don Romeo)
Eighth: The Sports Boosters' Nancy Fraboni and daughter Makenna, who is a member of the state championship team.
Ninth: Boys cross country coach John Fazzary -- whose team won a state championship in the fall, was introduced and greeted by the girls basketball team. (Photo by Don Romeo)

The WGHS cheerleaders led the student body in some cheers at Wednesday's asssembly.

The Watkins Glen basketball players and coaches signed their Walk of Fame stars during Wednesday's gathering. (Photo by Don Romeo)

Conlin Wysocki sings "Amie" at Wednesday's concert, with his sister Melonie joining in.

Artists-in-residence concert features musical talents of many WGHS students

WATKINS GLEN, March 8, 2017 -- Student musicians from the 7th through 12th grades took the stage at the Watkins Glen High School auditorium Wednesday night for a concert demonstrating their abilities and what they had learned from three visiting artists.

For the past several weeks, artists-in-residence Rosie Newton, Jesse Heasly and Katie McShane worked with student musicians at the school to develop their musical performance skills. A number of students spent class and lunch periods working individually with the artists to prepare pieces for the concert, which was free and open to the public.

Both Newton and McShane -- each of whom has participated as an artist-in-residence at WGHS for several years -- enthused about the students and the experience. "We enjoy coming here," said Newton, with McShane adding: "We're rocking tonight."

Newton attended Ithaca College for viola performance, and now spends her time touring internationally with various Americana and folk rock bands. She lives in Trumansburg, where she recently returned from two weeks of touring in the United Kingdom. She can be found playing music locally, too.

Heasly is a graduate of the New England Conservatory, where he studied jazz bass performance. He is an active touring bassist in the New England area. Tredici Bacci, a band he helped create, has been featured in The Rolling Stone and The New Yorker.

McShane has a degree in music education from Ithaca College and a master’s degree in contemporary music improvisation from New England Conservatory. In addition to teaching, she composes music for various ensembles and performs with several touring bands, playing many different instruments.

All three were on stage with the students Wednesday night, as well as during an assembly during school hours. They provided backup music as well as encouragement for the evening's musicians.

The artists' roll is an extension of the twenty annual visits paid by Ithaca bassist Hank Roberts, who worked with students at the old Middle School before the program was enlarged and moved to the high school -- and handed off by Roberts to Newton and McShane.

Wednesday's concert began with a performance -- by teacher Travis Durfee and the resident artists -- of an original song by Durfee titled "Crockpot Squirrel." Next came performances by:

--Kacey Samuels singing "Valerie."
--Gaetano Williams singing "Unsteady."
--Katherine Larson and Kelsey Kernan singing "Count on Me."
--Annika Wickham and Allie Gibson performing an instrumental piece, "The Judge."
--Katlyn Kernan singing "Titanium."
--Miranda Rodriguez and Enqi Lin singing "Everything Has Changed."
--Jack Muir singing "Miserable at Best," accompanying himself on guitar.
--John Reed, with Simon Wigmore on drums, playing his own original instrumental piece, "A Greater Journey."
--Nikole VanDyke singing "I Pray For You."
--Wyatt and brother Wrett Brower, with Wyatt providing vocals, performing "You Don't Love Me Anymore."
--Claudia Parker performing an instrumental, "Chasing Cars," on piano.
--Scott Brubaker singing "Just the Way You Are."
--Serafina Lopresti singing "Bring It On Home To Me."
--Kayla Palmer performing "You Could Be Happy" on flute.
--Caleb Rozell singing "Huntin', Fishin', And Lovin' Every Day," accompanying himself on guitar.
--Shannon Alger singing "Hallelujah."
--Nicole Price performing the instrumental "Say You Won't Let Go" on piano.
--Alix Matthews singing his original "Bottle of Jack," with Kris Ayers on drums.
--Alexis Atchie singing "Work Song."
--Savannah Ayers singing "Piece by Piece."
--Melonie Wysocki and Kellie Memoli singing "Free Fallin'"
--Various performers from the night's acts gathering onstage for a group song, "Jolene."
--William Yeater singing "Impossible Year."
--Sierra Morris singing "A Thousand Years."
--Aidan DeBolt singing "Blackbird," accompanying himself on guitar.
--Conlin Wysocki singing "Amie," with his sister Melonie singing backup.
--All of the performers gathering in front of the stage to sing "What a Wonderful World."

Photos in text:

Top: Wyatt (right) and Wrett Brower, performing "You Don't Love Me Anymore."
Second: Kelsey Kernan, right, and Katherine Larson after singing a duet.
Third: Allie Gibson, left, and Annika Wickham performing an instrumental duet.
Fourth: Serafina Lopresti sings "Bring It On Home To Me."
Bottom: One of the artists-in-residence, Rosie Newton, performing at the concert.

Left: Scott Brubaker sings "Just the Way You Are." Right: Aidan DeBolt performs.

Left: Claudia Parker performs "Chasing Cars." Right: Gaetano Williams sings "Unsteady."

Left: Kacey Samuels sings "Valerie," with artist-in-residence Jesse Heasly in the background. Right: Jack Muir sings "Miserable at Best."

Left: Katlyn Kernan sings "Titanium." Right: Nicole Price performs at the piano.

Left: Willliam Yeater sings "Impossible Year," with artist-in-residence Katie McShane in the background. Right: Shannon Alger sings "Hallelujah."

Left: Sierra Morris sings "A Thousand Years." Right: Caleb Rozell performs.

WG Alumni Association offers scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 2, 2017 -- The Watkins Glen High School Alumni Association, Inc. will once again present its annual scholarships to three graduating seniors.

The Association was formed in 2006 to support the annual alumni banquet, recognize distinguished alumni, award scholarships and build a community of Watkins Glen graduates.

Since 2007, the association has awarded more than $41,000 to Watkins Glen High School seniors at the Alumni Banquet. Three students are selected each year to receive awards of up to $6,000.

Interested Watkins Glen High School seniors are invited to apply for this year’s scholarships. Scholarship criteria and all necessary application documents are available at the association’s website, www.watkinsglenalumni.org. Each applicant’s submission must be postmarked no later than May 1. The completed application with all criteria included should be mailed to:

WGHS Alumni Association
Attn: Scholarship Committee
301 12th Street
Watkins Glen, New York 14891

After the deadline, the scholarship awards committee will select eligible applicants to interview. Following the interview process, three individuals will be selected by the association to receive the scholarships. Recipients will be notified in writing. Attendance at the Alumni Banquet is required.

This year’s banquet will be held on Saturday, June 24 at the Watkins Glen Community Center. Social time will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the announcement of this year’s scholarship recipients and the presentation of distinguished alumni awards. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m.

Questions may be directed to Peggy Scott, association president, at peggsctt@yahoo.com or by telephone at 546-8268.

Information meeting set on capital project

Special to The Odessa File

WATKiNS GLEN, March 1, 2017 -- Residents of the Watkins Glen Central School District can learn more about a proposed $12.6 million capital project at an informational meeting at 5:45 p.m. on Monday, March 6, as part of a regular School Board session in the district office board room.

Taxpayers in the district will be asked to vote on the proposed project from noon to 8 p.m. March  28 in the district office board room.

The proposed project was developed by Hunt Engineers, Architects and Surveyors at the request of the Board of Education. According to Superintendent Tom Phillips, the timing of the project allows the district to take advantage of the retirement of the debt from the $36 million project completed in 2000. The current state-aid level for capital improvement is 80.9 percent. With the retirement of the debt and the use of capital reserves, there will be no increased tax impact for the proposed improvements and renovations, say school officials.

There are several areas the district plans to address with the capital project. The original Elementary School building was constructed in 1951, with an addition in 1958. Areas of the building, officials say, are in need of updates and renovation.

In addition, the Field House, Elementary addition and High School addition completed in 2000 are quickly approaching a 20-year anniversary. Those areas, along with other identified areas, will need complete roof replacement as the warranty will expire, school officials note.

The district also plans to install artificial turf surfaces on the main stadium field and the infields of both the baseball and softball fields. The artificial surfaces, school officials say, will remedy several issues related to current fields. A particular issue, they say, is the inability of the fields to drain. This, the officials say, occasionally makes the fields unplayable and unsafe. "These artificial surfaces will ensure optimum use year-round for both school and community use," says a press release.

In addition, the district plans to expand the tennis courts and add lighting.

B.C. Cate to offer full-day 3-year-old PreK

MONTOUR FALLS, March 1 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to attend a full-day three-year-old Pre-Kindergarten program at B.C. Cate Elementary School this September.

If your child resides in the Odessa-Montour Central School District and will be three years old on or before December 1, 2017, he/she is eligible for this program.

To express interest in the full-day three-year-old Pre-Kindergarten program, call the school at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Friday, March 24.

B.C. Cate to offer full-day UPK in fall

MONTOUR FALLS, March 1 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to attend a full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten program at B.C. Cate Elementary School this September.

If your child resides in the Odessa-Montour Central School District and will be four years old on or before December 1, 2017, he/she is eligible for this program.

To express interest in the full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, call the school at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Friday, March 24.

B.C. Cate schedules kindergarten sign-ups

MONTOUR FALLS, March 1 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District wishes to identify families with children eligible to begin Kindergarten at the B.C. Cate Elementary School in September 2017. A child is eligible if he/she will be five years old on or before December 1, 2017.

Kindergarten registration is scheduled for May 1-5. Parents will need to bring their child, child’s birth certificate, proof of residency and proof of child’s immunizations.

If you did not receive a letter in February, please call the B. C. Cate office at 535-7267, ext. 3780 by Thursday, March 24 to be sure your child is on the roster and to schedule an appointment for your child’s kindergarten screening.

Watkins freshmen hold Medieval Fair

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 14 -- Freshmen at Watkins Glen High School recreated the sights and sounds of Medieval times Tuesday in the school Field House.

Students have been studying the Medieval period for several weeks and demonstrated their knowledge at the fair by making a presentation on some aspect of life in the Middle Ages.

Events included workshops on Medieval music and drama, demonstrations of archery and combat, a falconer, crafts and food.

*******


Photo in text: Junior Jazmin Shea gets a close-up look at an owl during the Medieval Fair held at WGHS. (Photo provided)

A color-coded chart on display at the School Board meeting outlined the classroom work being planned. The dark tan that predominates refers to classroom improvements at the elementary school (center and lower left) and the high school/middle school (upper left).

Glen School Board OKs capital project

WATKINS GLEN, Feb. 6, 2017 -- The Watkins Glen School Board Monday night unanimously approved a $12.64 million capital project to be voted on by district residents on March 28.

The project, outlined for the board by Jeffrey Robbins, Director of Architecture for Hunt Engineers, has four phases, the first two of which Robbins said contain "a large amount of work focused on the elementary school," much of it on condition upgrades.

The highest profile portion of the project, though, is an athletic field update (pictured above) that would, if the project is approved, include a synthetic turf football field, and turf infields for both the softball and baseball programs. The outfields would remain natural grass.

The turf installations are an outgrowth of research, said Superintendent Tom Phillips, that shows the fields -- uneven surfaces with frequent drainage issues -- are undergirded by "a DOT (Department of Transportation) dump" that includes concrete and steel refuse. "We tried hard to bring the fields up to snuff," he said, but found it would require "excavating the whole area" to do so properly and still maintain a natural grass surface. It makes mores sense, Phillips suggested, to do what the project envisions: add a layer of playing surface with synthetic turf instead.

Exterior work would also include an update of lighting at the athletic field bleachers, with increased light extending to the area east of the main field; a tennis court added to the four that exist, pavement of a utility access road, playground resurfacing improvements, and the addition of two basketball courts, one behind the high school for older kids and one behind the elementary school for younger ones. (Those basketball courts, said Phillips, are being covered by funds unused in the previous, $24 million capital project.)

The work at the Elementary School, the superintendent noted, is self-explanatory, the building having been built back in 1951 and expanded in 1958. It is in natural need of improvements.

Work on the roof -- Phase 3 and Phase 4 of the project -- stems from a need to correct material breakdowns that will, if not handled soon, extend beyond warranty coverage.

Underlining all of this, Hunt's Robbins said, is the fact that the project "will have no tax impact." A total of 80.9% is state aidable under current State Education Department offerings. The rest comes from the district's Capital Reserve Fund and "existing capital aid." Two board members, asked after the meeting what would happen if the project were rejected by voters, said that in such a case, much of it would be mandated down the road by the state, with no guarantee as to what state aid might then be available.

Photos in text: Drawing highlights the planned turf fields (the tan infield areas on the baseball and softball fields would be turf, too); a timeline of the project; Hunt Director of Architecture Jeffrey Robbins, with chart on the far right delineating roof replacement work -- the purple being Phase 3 of the capital project (with warranty expiring in 2021) and the green being Phase 4 (a 2023 warranty end).

Spring Water Aerobics classes offered

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Feb. 8 -- Odessa-Montour Central School (“Aerobic Fun in the Water”) and Watkins Glen Central School (“Aqua Aerobics”) will soon host the next sessions of water aerobics classes.

Everyone over 18 is welcome. Odessa-Montour’s sessions begin Monday, February 27 and run for seven weeks, with Thursday classes beginning March 2; classes run 7- 8 p.m. The next session at Watkins Glen Central School begins Tuesday, March 21 for seven sessions; classes run from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

All classes need sufficient registered participants to be scheduled, so to ensure that the classes are scheduled, registrations are needed soon.

All sessions are $7 per class; walk-ins are welcome, too. Call 607-739-8170 or 739-7905, or register online at www.gstboces.org.

Classes are offered through GST BOCES Adult Education.

School Board approves special-session resolution related to DeVos confirmation

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 31, 2017 -- The Watkins Glen School Board, meeting in special session Tuesday morning, approved a resolution, 4-3, designed to express concern about the pending confirmation of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education.

The session had been called with the urging of the Watkins Glen Faculty Association, which had submitted a sample resolution that took DeVos to task by name, saying she and "her track record are antithetical to public education," and that "if confirmed, she poses a threat to students' access to affordable, quality higher education." A note to the Board from WGFA President Travis Durfee requesting the meeting also referred to DeVos as "uniquely unfit to serve as Education Secretary." (One board member said the idea for the meeting and resolution was self-generated; two others credited Durfee's efforts.)

Nonetheless, the board resolution-- passed after extensive discussion -- makes no mention of DeVos by name.

"The WGCSD," said Durfee in a statement later in the day, "took action today as the U.S. Senate considered Betsy DeVos as the secretary of education. Two dozen school districts statewide have adopted resolutions against Betsy DeVos as secretary of education. A full 86% of board members polled by the state's School Boards Association opposed her nomination. We had hoped to give high fives to the Watkins Glen School Board today for sharing our disapproval of the DeVos nomination, and instead we share a handshake for their strong statement in support of public education. Kudos to the members of the Watkins Glen School Board who affirmed the resolution and voiced their support for public schools."

According to a meeting summary published by the District, board members "Keith Caslin and Mark Franzese spoke about their concern about the upcoming resolution," with the board having "a spirited lengthy discussion related to the consideration of this motion and the question" of whether it should be "a practice of the board to consider taking action relating to a political issue."

The approved board resolution, titled Watkins Glen Central School Board of Education Resolution in Support of the American System of Public Education, reads as follows:

"WHEREAS, concern has been raised regarding the future should our government place significant support for privatization of our American system of public education to an extent that would channel funds away from our public schools where most students attend; and

"WHEREAS, our State and Federal Government should consider meaningful connection with public schools when choosing administrators of public education funds; and

"WHEREAS, student access to affordable, quality education at every level from pre- school and elementary school through higher education should be a priority of our American system of public education, and

"WHEREAS, respect for civil rights and the Constitution’s separation of church and state is essential to the future of the American system of public education.

"RESOLVED, that Watkins Glen Central School Board of Education supports the American system of public education at every level as noted and requests that the representatives of this school district on the local, State and National level endorse only policies and public officials that are committed to its continued integrity."

Board members opposed to the resolution were Caslin, Franzese and Barb Schimizzi.

Statements by Board members Keith Caslin and Mark Franzese in opposition to the resolution can be found on Forum.

Minnier honored as Student of Month

Special to
The Odessa File

HORSEHEADS, Jan. 5 -- Daniel Minnier, an Odessa-Montour High School junior in the Conservation program, has been selected as a Career and Technical Education Program Student of the Month for November at the GST BOCES Bush Education Center.

Conservation Instructor Valerie Kimmerly said that in addition to his excellent grades and perfect attendance, Daniel displays a strong work ethic and leadership qualities. “Dan takes the opportunity to help others before he is asked to,” she said. “He is a go-to student who we can count on to complete a task well and in a timely fashion.”

The Student of the Month is selected by a committee of CTE staff based on nominations.

Photo in text: Daniel Minnier (center), a junior in the Conservation program, accepts the Student of the Month award from Instructor Valerie Kimmerly (left) and CTE Assistant Principal Rob Sherburne. (Photo provided)

Watkins School Board discusses safety, hears from mother of special-needs boy

WATKINS GLEN, Jan. 3 -- The Watkins Glen School Board Tuesday night discussed the need for having trained medical personnel at sporting events, and heard some critical words from the mother of a special-needs student at the high school.

The medical issue was raised by board member Barb Schimizzi, who thought it prudent to have trained personnel present at sporting events to treat injuries. Superintendent Tom Phillips noted that the school had had a person available through an agreement with Schuyler Hospital, but that it was no longer in effect.

While coaches are trained in first aid and CPR, Schimizzi said, it seems wise to have someone on hand with professional training. Discussion then focused on which events, and how cost is a factor. It was pointed out that ambulance personnel are on hand at high-impact sports such as football and wrestling.

Ultimately, Phillips said he would meet with Athletic Director Rod Weeden to formulate a proposal for board consideration.

The board also, at the meeting's outset, heard from the mother of a special-needs student at the high school who was unhappy with the way that school administrators have handled her son's situation -- in particular a recent series of events in which she had hoped he would be part of the swim team.

Her statement -- to which Board President Kelly McCarthy said "I'm sure we'll look into the issues" -- follows:

"For those who do not know who I am, my name is Danielle Matthews and my son is Steven Cinelli, who is an 8th grader. The reason I decided to come here tonight is simple. I recently contacted several different individuals to discuss my son being on the swim team. He is a special-needs student with respite care at home, so I thought we could utilize his program from home to get him involved in a school sport. I talked with the necessary individuals, explaining that our program at home would be paying for the respite worker, and also asked if we could drive him instead of riding in a van due to personal/medical issues which I voiced my concerns about. I was told this was a great idea and we would get a meeting together to finalize the details.

"Through the weeks I heard that there was an issue with my respite worker being the one with him. So I called to find out what was going on. During that conversation I found out I didn't get to decide who took my son to the swim team because it was an extension of the school day. I was told that if we were in a big school district this wouldn't even be a discussion because he would have already been cut from the team. I was also told that he would have to ride the van to be on the swim team. Now as a parent, how would you take this conversation? First we are fighting over who works with him when another program is paying for it, and then when that seemed absurd another obstacle I specifically said was going to be an issue was thrown in -- when my understanding was that last year parents drove the kids themselves and asked that transportation be offered this year.

"I haven't come to argue tonight because I voluntarily decided to stop moving forward with trying to get him on the team. After I made that decision I received a phone call that he didn't have to ride the van. Seemed a little after the fact by now since I already said we wouldn't be moving forward with the team. I felt through this whole process as if my son was not wanted on the team for whatever reason. And that is why I chose to stop moving forward.

"A few individuals have reached out and taken it upon themselves to get Steven involved in different activities -- which has shown me that our community cares more about getting my son involved then the administrators do. You should be ashamed that the people running this school are fighting a special needs parent instead of embracing these students to be as involved as possible. And this isn't the first time! I have been made to feel like my son is a burden on this school.

"Mr. Phillips, you said it yourself to me four years ago during a meeting. Your exact words were "Do you know how much those special needs kids cost us?" Imagine if this was your child and you were told you weren't allowed to make decisions or if obstacles were thrown in their way. I know some individuals will make excuses for some of their comments or say they didn't say that. This isn't a battle over he said, she said. I'm here tonight with my next issue.

"I don't know how aware you are of special education, but typically a student stays in school until he or she is 21, but I want to start moving forward with having him graduate at 18 since through the years of fighting for anything extra I have been reminded time and time again that "money" or "politics" will always prevent my son from being anything more then a standard Special Ed student who sits in a classroom filling his day with stuff that will not change his future. I'm a very involved parent and I want to put something in perspective to you all. Recently Steven was given a salary for at-home care while being a full-time student of $45,000! If that's what the state is giving for minimal care at home for part-time hours since he is still in school, let's take a minute to think about what funding you are getting for him to be in school. Or furthermore, how much more funding he could receive while he is no longer a student.

"I would rather be able to be part of a team who gets to make decisions on how to better my son's future rather then hear I'm not allowed to make any decisions because he costs you too much money! I want more for him. I want what any parent would want. The only way I see that happening is if I rid your budget of him. We will be having a meeting in the near future to discuss this topic and I hope I can have the support of the board if not administrators to allow my son to have a future of endless goals. Not one based off a dollar amount."

Photos in text:

Top: Board members Mark Franzese, left, and Keith Caslin at Tuesday's meeting.
Bottom: Superintendent Tom Phillips and Board President Kelly McCarthy during Tuesday's session.

For a district summary of the School Board meeting, click here.

O-M receives Cargill equipment grant

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, Jan. 1, 2017 -- Science students at Odessa-Montour will soon be using state-of-the-art technology thanks to a grant from Cargill.

Teacher Laurel Strobel wrote the grant proposal for $10,381, which will be used to purchase classroom resources and technology to implement the Advancing Science Through Technology Initiative in two STEM high school courses and one ACE science course. Equipment to be purchased will include DNA Gel Electrophoresis equipment, microscopes and Wisconsin FAST plant equipment and supplies.

“We will purchase equipment and materials that will enable our students to delve into hands-on inquiry-based learning,” said Strobel. “I am very appreciative of the support that Cargill is providing to further learning opportunities for local students in our community.”

Strobel developed a “wish list” of items she wanted for her students and was awarded the entire amount she asked for. According to Keith Klug, plant manager for Cargill in Watkins Glen, the grant is made possible by funds from the local Cargill Cares Committee at the Watkins Glen facility and matching dollars from the Cargill Global Partnership Fund.

“Every year, the Watkins Glen Cargill Cares Committee strives to make a positive impact within the communities in which we operate and our employees live,” said Klug. “Supporting this STEM-based program is in direct alignment with the philanthropic focus areas of the Cargill Global Partnership Fund -- food and nutrition security, education and environmental stewardship. On behalf of the more than 100 employees at Cargill Watkins Glen, it is an honor to be part of this exciting new classroom program.”

Photo in text: From left, Odessa-Montour Jr./Sr. High School Principal Skip McCarty, Cargill Plant Manager Keith Klug, Teacher Laurel Strobel and Cargill Cares Committee Chair Jerry Dunlavey. (Photo provided)

WG winners named in Red Ribbon contest

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Dec 19 -- The Council on Alcoholism & Addictions of the Finger Lakes (CAA) has announced the Red Ribbon Week contest winners from Schuyler County. Each of the four is from Watkins Glen High School.

The Red Ribbon Week Campaign has been held every October since 1988 to commemorate DEA Agent Enrique Camarena and others, who have given their lives to stop drug abuse in the U.S.

CAA offers an annual RRW contest to grades 6-12 in all schools throughout Schuyler, Yates, Seneca, Ontario and Wayne counties.

Submissions that scored 100% were placed into a random drawing for 1 of 9 prizes ranging from a laptop to tablet devices to gift cards.

The Schuyler winners are:
2nd Prize (Tablet) -- Ashley Youmans
2nd Prize (Tablet) -- Jill Cantieni
3rd Prize ($100 Gift Card) -- Zachary Naylor
4th Prize ($50 Gift Card) -- Mason Neira

"Thank you to all of the Watkins Glen students who participated, and to the school and family members who support them," said Gretchen Silliman, Schuyler Educator, Council on Alcoholism & Addictions.

Photo in text:
Left to right back: Zach Naylor, Mason Neira, Ashley Youmans, Jill Cantieni, WGHS Principal Kai D’Alleva.
Left to right front: Pete Frei and Gretchen Silliman (Council), and Margaret Swinnerton (WG health teacher).

Odessa-Montour receives Cargill grant

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, Dec. 6 -- Science students at Odessa-Montour High School will soon be using state-of-the-art technology thanks to a grant from Cargill.

Teacher Laurel Strobel wrote the grant proposal for $10,380, which will be used to purchase classroom resources and technology to implement the Advancing Science Through Technology Initiative in two STEM high school courses and one ACE science course. Equipment to be purchased will include DNA Gel Electrophoresis equipment, microscopes and Wisconsin FAST plant equipment and supplies.

“We will purchase equipment and materials that will enable our students to delve into hands-on inquiry-based learning,” said Strobel. “I am very appreciative of the support that Cargill is providing to further learning opportunities for local students in our community.”

Strobel developed a “wish list” of items she wanted for her students and was awarded the entire amount she asked for. According to Keith Klug, plant manager for Cargill in Watkins Glen, the grant is made possible by funds from the local Cargill Cares Committee at the Watkins Glen facility and matching dollars from the Cargill Global Partnership Fund.

“Every year, the Watkins Glen Cargill Cares Committee strives to make a positive impact within the communities in which we operate and our employees live,” said Klug. “Supporting this STEM-based program is in direct alignment with the philanthropic focus areas of the Cargill Global Partnership Fund -- food and nutrition security, education and environmental stewardship. On behalf of the more than 100 employees at Cargill Watkins Glen, it is an honor to be part of this exciting new classroom program.”

Representatives from Cargill will present a check to Strobel and her students at a ceremony at O-M on Friday, December 9 at 10 a.m.

O-M seeking 3-year-olds for Pre-K

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, Dec. 1, 2016 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District will offer a curriculum-based Pre-Kindergarten program for district 3-year-olds beginning in early January 2017. In November, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that Odessa-Montour will receive $266,217 in New York State funding to expand its current UPK program.

The full-day program will run Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at B.C. Cate Elementary School. Parents will be responsible for transporting students to and from school, as transportation will not be provided by the district.

The 3-year-old program can accommodate 15 students. If you are interested in enrolling your child, contact the B.C. Cate office at 535-7267 between Dec. 1 and 21. If more than 15 students are on the list after this period, a lottery will be held to select enrollees.

The National Honor Society at O-M. New inductees are in the front row. (Photo provided)

14 at O-M join National Honor Society

ODESSA, Dec. 1 -- Fourteen Odessa-Montour High School students were inducted Wednesday night into the O-M chapter of the National Honor Society in a ceremony in the school's Fetter-Brown Auditorium.

Joining the Honor Society were junior Cheyenne Barrett and sophomores Mckenzie Barrett, Noah Brewster, Tyler Carson, Hunter Daugherty, Olivia Grover, Kennedey Heichel, Jacy Knapp, McKennah Lott, Hannah Rosier, Maria Scata, Nadia Simpson, Syria Tague and Jacqulyn Vincent.

Candles at the traditional lighting portion of the ceremony were ignited by members Emelia Paulisczak, Collin Povoski, Gillian Clark and Hailey Perraut. The narrator was Erin Kleist.

Senior Alyssa Crout is the chapter president. Gillian Clark is vice president, Nick Sgrecci treasurer, and Erin Kleist secretary. Advisors are Holly Campbell and Sadye Halpin.

Photo in text: Part of the traditional candle lighting ceremony. (File photo)

The school's state-champion cross country team was honored by the School Board. From left: Athletic Director Rod Weeden, Sam Thorsland, Sam Hanley, Sean Holland, Kai Sutterby (who was the lone girl from Watkins Glen to run in the state tournament), Patrick Hazlitt, Shawn Rutledge, Daniel Paradiso, Jacob Carocci, Gabe Planty, Aaron Planty and Coach John Fazzary.

Glen School Board hires consultant for superintendent search; XC team honored

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 21 -- The Watkins Glen School Board has approved a contract with Vincent J. Coppola to serve as consultant during the upcoming search for a superintendent to succeed the retiring Tom Phillips.

The decision came at Monday night's board meeting, after a half-hour executive session called to discuss that search. Coppola will receive $13,000 for the job, which will continue until the search process is completed.

Coppola, a former superintendent in the Corning School District, is part of the Western New York Education Service Council at the State University of New York at Buffalo. Phillips said Coppola has been involved in superintendent searches for 18 years.

The board also:

--Honored the school's boys varsity cross country team, which won the New York State Class C and Federation meet titles. Each of nine boys was presented a certificate by Athletic Director Rod Weeden, as was the lone member of the girls team to advance to States, Kai Sutterby. The team was to be honored the next morning at 8:30 in a schoolwide assembly in the WGHS Field House.

--Discussed, without resolution, a request by the International Motor Racing Research Center for access from the school's Elementary School road entrance -- the extension of 15th Street -- to a planned parking area at the rear of the Center expansion to be built on property that was formerly a school playground. The land was purchased by the Center several years ago from the school district for expansion purposes.

Board members had fire code and easement reservations, and wanted to see the property in person before considering the request. Superintendent Tom Phillips said he was merely passing it along. "It's not my battle," he said. "They brought it to me. It's up to the board. Do what you want."

--Discussed a list of possible projects to be incorporated into a capital project the board has indicated it wants to put before the voters for a referendum in the spring. Key among the projects, board member Keith Caslin has urged, is renovation of the elementary school.

Phillips told board members that for a spring vote to take place, they would have to move quickly. He urged them to decide soon which of the projects they want included, and to meet with architects and engineers in December.

"It seems so soon," board member Gloria Brubacker said, prompting Phillips to respond: "If the board doesn't want to go forward, it's no skin off of me."

But board members, led by Caslin, indicated they would whittle down the list, and revisit the issue at their next meeting, set for Dec. 5.

Photos in text:

Top: School Board members Kris Clarkson and Gloria Brubaker.
Middle: Cross country team member Patrick Hazlitt receives a certificate from Athletic Director Rod Weeden.
Bottom: Superintendent Tom Phillips with the cross country team's state championship plaque, right, and its Federation championship plaque.

Holland backers urge board's support

WATKINS GLEN, Nov. 8, 2016 -- The Watkins Glen School Board heard a plea Monday night from the Schuyler County Youth Football Association in support of the head coach of the Seneca Indians varsity football team, Trevor Holland.

Spokesmen for the team said they were concerned that Holland -- who just completed his first season at the helm of the Seneca Indians, the combined Watkins Glen High School and Odessa-Montour football squad -- was not being fairly considered as he seeks a second year as coach. His first season ended in a 1-7 record, and that, his supporters said -- combined with "some conflict" during the season and what they suggested was a poor relationship between Holland and the outgoing superintendent, Tom Phillips -- might work against him.

The Youth Football Association Executive Board and Board of Directors, in a statement, said Holland is "of the highest caliber" as "person and coach " and "exemplifies the very nature of what a Coach should be." Holland was integral in starting and developing the Youth Football League before moving on to the varsity level, "and still contributes his time" with the league, said one supporter.

"He has always displayed the utmost integrity and commitment to the football program with the two school districts," the statement said, and "has always dedicated his personal time to enhance and further the football program both for our organization and for the Seneca Indians. Trevor Holland is a world-class individual and brings many talents which will only benefit our community."

The statement urged that both districts "provide unconditional support" of Holland, and said that Holland "is best suited for the long-term success of the football program for both our organization and yours."

Board President Kelly McCarthy said there was "a process" that is always followed in naming a coach, which is a one-year appointment, and that accordingly any perceived delay is because of the process "and doesn't mean any sitting coaches will be removed." Holland, as a member of the Watkins Glen Faculty Association, has claim over the job as opposed to a non-member, board members said, and would be subject to the interview process only if another member wanted the job.

When an association member asked if Holland had even been asked "if he wants to come back," board member Keith Caslin responded: "There have been conversations."

In other business:

--The board heard from four 7th grade students -- Kara Sheesley, Bailey Beaumont, Kellie Memoli and Mason Lampman-Roisen -- about the plan of their class, led by teacher Tammy Kellogg, to raise funds for the ongoing effort to improve water availability in South Sudan. A Kellogg-led class two years ago raised $15,000 (in just four months) for construction of a well in South Sudan, where contaminated water is a major contributor to disease and death.

This time, said Kellogg, the students hope to raise between $5,000 and $7,000 "over a longer period of time," perhaps handing off the project for completion by next year's 7th graders. Funds would be raised through donations, bakes sales, T-shirt sales and other means.

The Board quickly and unanimously approved the fund-raising effort.

--Caslin and board member Barb Schimizzi apologized to the Watkins Glen Sports Boosters, criticized at a board meeting last month for its plan to jettison the seasonal award program held in the school cafeteria -- a decision made for a number reasons outlined by the Boosters in a subsequent letter. (See the Forum page.)

Caslin said he has learned that the Boosters' decision was explained months ago in a missive to the board that was "not relayed. There was a communications breakdown." He said that in investigating the situation, he found that the Boosters have long provided services "I didn't know they'd done," and that he hopes "they continue their good work."

Schimizzi, who had raised the awards issue at that previous meeting, said she wanted to "apologize for bringing everything to the forefront before I knew all the details." But, she added, she still believes that student-athletes' achievements need to be recognized, and "we will do something for them."

--The Board gave its support to Caslin to study the need for renovations in the coming years in various parts of the district's buildings -- including the elementary school, the bus garage, the high school and the athletic field. Add to that, Phillips said, the existing school roof that was part of the capital project in the year 2000. The roof leaked in a number of areas during a recent heavy rainstorm, leaving behind minor damage. Warranty on the work goes until 2020, he said, so that should "take you to the project" envisioned by Caslin.

Once all of the details and needs are gathered, said Caslin, such a project could be put to the voters, and assuming approval, could then be submitted to the state. Completion of the project could take years, he added, so "this is the right time to do it. Now it the time to move forward."

Photos in text:

Top: Seneca Indians head football coach Trevor Holland confers with his quarterback.
Middle: 7th graders (from left) Kara Sheesley, Bailey Beaumont, Kellie Memoli and Mason Lampman-Roisen presented a plan to raise funds that could help improve South Sudan water. The board approved.
Bottom: Board member Keith Caslin at Monday night's meeting.

O-M grad Ross named to Dean's List

Special to The Odessa File

HOUGHTON, NY, Oct. 31, 2016 -- Kate Ross, a 2015 graduate of Odessa-Montour High School, has made the Dean's List at Houghton College for the Spring 2016 term.

She is in her second year there, majoring in Intercultural Studies. This past summer she spent a month in Beijing, China teaching English to Business majors.

To be named to the Dean's List, a student must maintain full-time status and achieve a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher for the semester.

Water Aerobics classes offered at schools

Special to The Odessa File

SCHUYLER COUNTY, Oct. 25 -- What’s better than a little fun in the water during winter’s dark days? Odessa-Montour Central School (“Aerobic Fun in the Water”) and Watkins Glen Central School (“Aqua Aerobics”) are hosting the next sessions of water aerobics classes, and registration time is upon us.

Everyone over 18 is welcome. Odessa-Montour’s sessions begin Monday, November 14 and run for 9 weeks, with Thursday classes beginning November 17, 2016; classes run 7-8 p.m.

The next session at Watkins Glen Central School begins Tuesday, November 1, for seven sessions; classes run from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

All classes need sufficient registered participants to be scheduled, so register now to ensure that these classes are scheduled! All sessions are $7 per class; walk-ins are welcome, too. Register online at www.gstboces.org or call 607-739-8170 or 739-7905.

The classes are offered through GST BOCES Adult Education.

Planning Retreat on drug abuse scheduled

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, Oct. 26, 2016 -- The Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs’ annual Fall Planning Retreat will be held Monday, November 14 from 3-5 p.m. at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.

RSVPs are required by November 1 by calling 607-535-8129. This year’s presenters include Schuyler County District Attorney Joseph G. Fazzary and Schuyler Teens against Alcohol, Nicotine, and other Drugs (STAND).

Fazzary will be presenting on the State of Drug Use in Schuyler County.

“I have been District Attorney for nearly 20 years now," he says. "During that tenure, I have seen nearly every illegal drug in existence used and sold in this county. Over the last year, it is clear that the use of opioids is on the rise, which is of great concern to me. Heroin is killing people all around us. It is causing otherwise good people to commit crimes. This is something that, as a community, we need to address before our citizens start dying. Slowly, law enforcement is getting a handle on this problem, but we need to, and can, do more.”

STAND will be presenting on the Medicine Safety Youth Educators Program. Research has shown that youth begin to self-medicate around the age of 11. By the age of 16, it shows, about 90% of youth report self-administering over-the-counter (OTC) medications. If not equipped with the proper knowledge, mistakes can happen. Local youths Amber Updike and Kelsey Kernan were trained to be peer leaders and are currently educating Schuyler County 5th and 6th graders with support from their adult advisor. It is the hope of both girls that the Medicine Safety Program will have the greater impact of “helping our community by preventing any future addiction to prescription drugs.”

SCCUDD was formed in response to the Schuyler County Public Health Department’s Community Health Assessment showing concerning youth outcomes. Part of this Assessment included a public opinion survey that showed the number one health concern of Schuyler County residents was the use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. The mission of SCCUDD is to prevent, reduce and delay the onset of substance use among Schuyler County youth by collaborating with community partners, promoting prevention education and substance-free activities, and implementing environmental strategies.

SCCUDD’s vision is a connected community where youth have education, resources, and drug-free options to help their journey to become happy, healthy adults. For more information, or to become involved with SCCUDD, visit SCCUDD online at www.schuylercounty.us/sccudd, or follow SCCUDD on Facebook and Twitter.

Noah Brewster performed a song, dance and trumpet routine, the show's final act.

Talent takes to the stage at O-M show

ODESSA, Oct. 21, 2016 -- Pianists, vocalists and dancers displayed their talents Friday night at a Community Talent Show staged in the Odessa-Montour High School's Fetter-Brown Auditorium.

The evening, which featured a bake sale and a raffle to help raise money for the O-M Fine Arts Boosters' year-long efforts at the school, was emceed by teacher Skip Strobel.

The first act, in fact, featured two young Strobel daughters, Lexi and Sarah, along with their friend Cara Reynolds, singing and dancing to the tune "I'm Gonna Catch You."

They were followed by O-M High School student Casey Underdown, playing the piano and singing "Someone Like You."

Then came Melissa Norton singing "My Immortal"; students Maddy Vogel and Alexis Ayers singing "House of Gold," accompanied on the ukulele by John Coates; Ashley Stewart and Grace Edger singing "Love Yourself," accompanied on piano by teacher Ian MacDonald; young Alex Campbell performing "Alouette" and "It's a Small World" on piano; Lilly Halpin singing "Oath"; pianist Kara Dougherty playing "You Raise Me Up"; and student Hailey Hoose, dancing on roller skates and singing "Can't Blame a Girl for Trying."

Then came an intermission, followed by several more acts:

--Singer Matt Norton, performing his own "I Don't Wanna Wait";
--LeNay Duet, a student singing Beyonce's "Pretty Hurts";
--Ben Campbell, performing three selections from "Star Wars" on piano;
--Melanie Janke, singing Andrew Lloyd Weber's "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again";
--Hannah Rosier, singing "Home" from "Beauty and the Beast"; and
--Noah Brewster, dancing, playing the trumpet and singing "I Wanna Be Like You."

Photos in text:

Top: Hannah Rosier belts out "Home" from "Beauty and the Beast."
Middle: Teacher Kara Dougherty performs "You Raise Me Up."
Bottom: Ashley Stewart, left, and Grace Edger sing "Love Yourself."

From left: Cara Reynolds and sisters Lexi and Sarah Strobel perform a song-and-dance number titled "I'm Gonna Catch You."

From left: Lilly Halpin sings "Oath"; Hailey Hoose sings and dances; and John Coates accompanies Hoose on the ukulele.

Left: Matt Norton sings his own song, "I Don't Wanna Wait." Right: Ben Campbell played three selections from "Star Wars" on the piano.

Left: LeNay Duet performs Beyonce's "Pretty Hurts." Right: Alex Campbell played two tunes on the piano, "Alouette" and "It's a Small World."

Left: Casey Underdown plays the piano and sings Adele's "Someone Like You." Right: Melissa Norton sings Evanescence's "My Immortal."

Left: Alexis Ayers, left, and Maddy Vogel sing "House of Gold," accompanied on ukulele by John Coates. Right: Melanie Janke sings "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again."

4 new staff members join Odessa-Montour

ODESSA, Sept. 6, 2016 -- The Odessa-Montour Central School District is welcoming four new staff members this school year. They include:

-- Sarah Schneider, 5th Grade Teacher
Schneider completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees in education at Keuka College. She worked part-time in Special Education for the Prattsburgh Central School District and has worked as a modified tennis coach, substitute teacher and tutor.

-- Meaghan Krazinski, High School Special Education Teacher
Krazinski is a graduate of Ithaca College and Syracuse University. She completed her graduate residency in the Syracuse City School District and worked at GST BOCES as a teaching assistant and in the Ithaca City School District as a Special Education teacher.

-- Kelly Martin, 5th Grade Teacher
Martin attended elementary school in Odessa-Montour and graduated from Watkins Glen High School. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees in education at Canisius College. She served as a substitute teacher in the Amherst Central School District for one and one-half years and organized and ran a summer camp for Canisius College based on hands-on scientific and higher-order thinking skills.

-- Amber Nolan, 5th-6th Grade Special Education
Nolan is a 1995 graduate of Odessa-Montour. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish Education from the University of Georgia and a Master’s degree in Special Education from Mansfield University. She has taught Spanish in Georgia, Maine and Corning. She also has coached swimming, basketball and track at varsity and modified levels.

Stillman earns TC3 student-athlete honor

DRYDEN, July 3 -- Odessa-Montour alum Callie Stillman is among seven Tompkins-Cortland Community College student-athletes honored with a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Academic Student-Athlete Award.

Stillman, a 2015 O-M graduate, earned an Exemplary Academic Achievement Award, which goes to students with a grade-point average between 3.80 and 3.99. Stillman was a member of the school's women's soccer team.

SFLW awards scholarship to Stansfield

Special to
The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 29 -- The Southern Finger Lakes Women, a Chapter of New York State Women, Inc., has awarded a $500 scholarship to Watkins Glen High School graduating senior Cheyenne Stansfield. The award ceremony was held recently at the Montour Falls Moose Lodge.

Stansfield will attend Alfred State College to prepare for a career in nursing, first as an RN and then as a Nurse Practitioner. In high school she achieved a GPA of 98.99. Her extracurricular activities included volleyball, tennis, golf and cheerleading, History Club, Student Council, senior plays, Yearbook Club, Interact Club, the Business and Marketing Honor Society and National Honor Society.

New York State Women, Inc., provides members with professional development, networking, and career advancement resources. Its mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. The chapter meets on the third Monday of each month. For more information, contact Karen Stewart at (607) 535-6686.

Photo in text: Sally Rigden, SFLW Scholarship Chair, and Cheyenne Stansfield, the 2016 scholarship winner. (Photo provided)

B.C. Cate Principal Veronica Lewis removes the copper time capsule from the cornerstone.

B.C. Cate principal finds time capsule;
new capsule buried for future generations

MONTOUR FALLS, June 22 -- A 50-year-old time capsule and a new cylindrical time capsule shared top billing Wednesday as the B.C. Cate Elementary School capped off its 50th anniversary celebration.

A ceremony burying the new capsule had long been planned by Principal Veronica Lewis, to take place in a renovated courtyard at the school. The courtyard, a 2,000-square-foot space now mulch-covered and boasting several young trees, will serve from time to time as an outdoor classroom in the instruction of science.

Being essentially new, it seemed a fine place to bury the new capsule. But the ceremony was given enhanced meaning with the discovery of another time capsule -- from the days when the B.C. Cate school was being built and opening, fully a half century ago.

The conjunction of capsules past and present all started with last week's 50th anniversary rededication celebration on the B.C. Cate grounds, and culminated with Lewis being alternately disappointed and then exhilarated this week as the old, long-buried capsule -- a copper box welded shut -- was located.

Lewis, in discussion at last week's ceremony with a member of the Cate clan -- a B.C. Cate grandson, Ron White -- learned from him that there had been a time capsule buried back in the mid-1960s, with completion of the school building. It was, he told her, buried where the cornerstorne exists, near the current playground at the building's side, not far from where another playground, for kids 2 to 5, is being built. He sent Lewis e-mails of newspaper clippings in his possession from that original dedication period.

One, from the Star-Gazette of July 16, 1965, showed local officials with the cornerstone before it was placed in a hole at the base of a welcoming wall. The cornerstone was marked 1964, apparently in keeping with the start of construction; the first classes were held in September 1965.

Another article, dated August 5, 1965, says the school is located on the site where Catharinestown, "the home of Queen Catharine, once stood. It was called She-qua-gah, meaning 'the place of roaring waters.'" That settlement consisted, the article said, of "47 longhouses on both sides of Catharine Creek," a body of water that passes by the rear of the school, beyond a large berm.

A third article, dated Sept. 15 1965, details the school's dedication ceremony. It was written by Schuyler County Historian Arthur H. Richards, a newsman of local renown.

And the fourth (also from 1965), which Lewis overlooked at first, tells of the placing of the cornerstone, with a photo showing the time capsule being placed in a slot in the bottom of the stone.

*******

Principal Lewis asked the workmen creating the new playground if they could remove the cornerstone without hurting the building, and the workmen said they could, and did so on Tuesday. But after it was pulled out, there was no sign of any time capsule -- any container -- behind it.

"I was sad" at that point, Lewis told her students when they gathered Wednesday in the school cafeteria as part of the day's celebration. But that disappointment had turned to excitement again when Lewis realized that the fourth news article carried that photo of the slot in the cornerstone.

When she reached the school Wednesday at 7:30 a.m., she said, "teacher Jim Nolan helped me flip the stone, and I felt under it for the box."

She felt it there, "and then we flipped the stone to see it, and I called (Superintendent) Chris Wood," and as soon as he arrived she pulled the copper box from the cornerstone and took it to her office. It was not easily opened, though -- it had been welded shut those years ago -- and maintenance chief Kelly Cain had to puncture it and then peel it open with a metal cutter.

The ceremony in the courtyard followed, with the school kids lining the wall around the yard and some of them pitching in -- one placing the new, cylindrical capsule in a pre-dug hole and several others putting shovels full of dirt atop it. The cylinder housed such things, Lewis said, as a school menu, a class picture, a book, a Coke can, a pen used on active boards, and "lots of other really cool stuff" selected by the school's classes.

"Today is a very special day," the principal told the students, "and I hope that years from now you guys can explain what we did today." The newly found time capsule from the '60s, she noted, "tells us about history, what was going on when this building was built. We're doing the same thing today. Maybe in 50 years, little children like you will open this capsule and see what was important to you."

The new capsule was buried next to a cherry tree, and was to be covered by an engraved stone.

The group then moved to the cafeteria, with Lewis arriving with the old copper box in hand -- the time capsule from yesteryear. She sat on the floor in the middle of the room, with the kids some distance away, near the walls.

Pulling items from the old box one by one, she showed the students its 1960s contents: a teacher's handbook, an English book, a chalkboard eraser, a piece of chalk, pencils, envelopes from the old Montour Elementary School, construction paper, a news article about a custodian, a School Board meeting agenda, a swimming pool proposal, a student handbook, a crayon, a straw, a badminton shuttlecock (or birdie), a ruler, and a manila envelope full of old photos of the area that Lewis planned to display later so everyone could see them.

When it was all done, Lewis concluded with these words to her students: "This has been very exciting, my friends, and I thank you for sharing this moment with us. Maybe you can tell people about it many years in the future."

******

Photos in text:

From top: Principal Veronica Lewis holds up one of the items from the old time capsule; B.C. Cate students shovel in some dirt atop the new capsule; the new capsule before it was buried; Superintendent Chris Wood, right, and maintenance chief Kelly Cain and the hole dug to hold the modern-day time capsule; a student waters one of the trees in the renovated courtyard, which will be used occasionally as an outdoor science classroom.

B.C. Cate students lined the courtyard walls in anticipation of the ceremony marking the burial of a new time capsule -- this one a cylinder with a screw cap.

Left: Principal Lewis arrives in the cafeteria with the old time capsule. Right: Some of the contents in the '60s capsule, a copper box which had been welded shut.

2 from Schuyler are on FLCC dean's list

CANANDAIGUA, June 17 -- Two Schuyler County students were among a total of 750 full- and part-time students named to the Finger Lakes Community College dean's list for spring 2016.

The Schuyler students are Tanya Smith of Hector and Kaylyn Teemley of Montour Falls.

To be named to the dean’s list, students must have a 3.5 grade-point average.

Schuyler Scholars dinner honors 17

WATKINS GLEN, June 15 -- The 9th annual Schuyler Scholars dinner Wednesday night honored academic leaders from the Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford high schools.

The event, held at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, honored seniors in the top 10% of their class. That meant 10 students from Watkins Glen, five from O-M, and two from Bradford.

Among those honored were:

Watkins Glen: Maggie Bond, Cheyenne Stansfield, Brenen Murphy, Claire McManus, Brandon Pike, Megan Chilson, Megan Hoy, Portia Wells, Emma Allington and Lucas Wickham.

Odessa-Montour: Mechel Wead, Madison Lodge, Rosemary Peckham, Olivia Scata and Logan Barrett.

Bradford: Rachael Bonning and Alexander Wood.

Speakers included Dr. Joseph Lee, interim vice president at Corning Community College, and 2014 O-M graduate Hayley Guild, now at SUNY Fredonia studying Elementary Education.

WGHS Class of 2016

The Watkins Glen High School senior class gathered outside the school for the annual senior class photo recently. Graduation will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 25 in the WGHS auditorium. (Photo by Don Romeo)

Somerville graduates from West Point

Special to The Odessa File

WEST POINT, NY, June 10 -- Cadet Brett James Somerville, son of Jim and Kristine Somerville of Watkins Glen, NY, graduated from the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday, May 21.

Somerville graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 2012. While at West Point, he concentrated his studies in Engineering Psychology and has earned the degree of Bachelor of Science. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within the Infantry branch.

The U.S. Military Academy says its mission is to "educate, train and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the Nation as an officer in the United States Army."

Photo in text: Brett Somerville with his parents, Jim and Kristine Somerville. (Provided)

Haley DeNardo named to Dean's List

Special to The Odessa File

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa., June 9 -- Haley DeNardo of Montour Falls, NY -- a graduate of Watkins Glen High School -- was on the spring 2016 Dean’s List at Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA. She attained a 3.5 GPA as part of her architecture curriculum.

She has two years remaining to complete her Bachelor of Architecture -- a five-year, accredited program.

This summer, she is an architecture intern at KTGY in Tysons, VA. In addition, she will go abroad to Rome, Italy for the fall semester, as required of her college major and curriculum.

She is the daughter of Mike and Betty DeNardo.

Student-funded So. Sudan well completed

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 31 -- Just a year after the Watkins Glen Class of 2020 raised more than $15,000 to fund a well in South Sudan, students have received word that the well has been completed.

The Water for South Sudan Charity notified the students with a letter and photos of the completed well in the village of Bookanyara. The well includes an inscription recognizing the students for their efforts.

In the fall of 2014, the then seventh-graders read A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, which tells the story of Nya, an 11-year-old girl in South Sudan who must travel two hours from her home twice a day to get the only water available for her family. The book also tells the story of Salva Dut, founder of Water for South Sudan.

After reading the story, students were inspired to take action and decided to lead the district in a fundraising campaign for the charity. Their goal was to raise $15,000, which is the amount it takes to build a well for a village in South Sudan. They made more than 48 presentations within the district in a single day, spoke to community organizations, sent letters to local businesses and held several fundraising events.

“This group of less than 100 students had such a powerful impact on this generous community that the funds were raised in just over four months,” said Tammy Kellogg, seventh-grade adviser.

Glen 7th, 8th grade awards announced

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 9 -- The following awards were presented to Watkins Glen 7th and 8th grade students at an awards assembly on June 1st.

7th Grade High Honor Roll Award:
Kaitlin Asbury, Tim Clifford, Abby Congdon, Kelsey DeMillo, Tanner Dunham, Natalie Edmister, Shannon Ervay, Maxwell Evans, Heidi Gardner, Brianna Hayes, Vanessa Heim, Mikayla Holmes, Bryce Kelly, Aislinn Klemann, Seamus Mooney, Dylan Morse, Kayla Palmer, Jasmine Searle, Cale Sutterby, Amanda Wilbur, Nicholas Wilston.

7th Grade Honor Roll Award:
Savannah Ayers, Boyd Barber, Chris Berry, Emma Bradshaw, Jack Chen, Michael Cook, Taylor Cummings, Jacob DeJong, Dylan Fraboni, Kaylee Franklin, Jon Havel, III, Matthew Irwin, Kaden Loucks-Scuteri, Steven Miller, Connor Novinsky, Nolan Ormsbee, Genevieve Osborne, David Strait, Brooke Usher, Sarai Wynkoop, Nicholas Yaw.

7th Grade Math:
Kaitlyn Asbury, Boyd Barber, Maria Brubaker, Max Evans, Jon Havel, III, Briana Hayes, Vanessa Heim, Bryce Kelly, Dylan Morse, Kayla Palmer, Elizabeth Scholtisek, Cale Sutterby.

7th Grade Science
Boyd Barber, Bryce Kelly, Dylan Morse, Elizabeth Scholtisek.

7th Grade Physical Education
Maria Brubaker, Madison Cary, Max Evans, Kelsey Kernan, Seamus Moody, Kayla Palmer, Genevieve Osborne, Nathan VanAmburg.

7th Grade Social Studies
Tim Clifford, Tanner Dunham, Shannon Ervay, Brianna Hayes, Bryce Kelly, Seamus Mooney, Dylan Morse, Kayla Palmer, Cale Sutterby.

7th Grade Technology
Rebecca Becker, Jake DeJong, Tanner Dunham, Aaron Fedele, Vanessa Heim, Aislinn Klemann, Connor Novinsky, Kayla Palmer, Cale Sutterby, Nathan VanAmburg, Nicholas Yaw.

Junior Honor Society Inductees
Boyd Barber, Douglas DiGregorio, Isabella LaFace, Abigail Gibson, Andrew Hayes, Cameron Holland, Andrew Hayes, Aislinn Klemann, Matthew Sandritter, Benjamin Swinnerton.

Health
Maria Brubaker, Abby Congdon, Natalie Edmister, Shannon Ervay, Heidi Gardner, Matthew Irwin, Bryce Kelly, Aislinn Klemann, Dylan Morse, Brendan Sheesley, Cale Sutterby, Amanda Wilbur, Nicholas Wilston, Sarai Wynkoop.

8th Grade High Honor Roll Award
Brandon Beaumont, Scott Brubaker, Jacey Carl, Madison Cary, Peighton Cervoni, Eleanor Clarkson, Haley Dean,  Aidan DiGregorio, Collin Gaylord, Steven Gublo, Travis Hill, Kelsey Kernan, Alexandria LaMoreaux, Enkang Lin, Engi Lin, Elaine Majors, Isaac McIlroy, Damon Morgan, Mason Neira, Maggie Rhoads, Miranda Rodriguez, Peter Sandritter, Dalton Shepherd, Adrienna Solomon, Olivia Stephani, Sarah Swinnerton, Amber Updike, Josiah Wysocki.

8th Grade Honor Roll Award
David Armstrong, Boryana Bond, Zachary Burrows, Elliott Holland, Katarena Jackson, Raiana Labonte, Brittany Luke, Erika Perrone, Monet Price, Gabe Planty, Tristan Rose-Morley, Zachary Schaffner, Daniel Snow, Eliya Stolpinski, Madelyn Suddaby, Samuel Thorsland, Breanna Wilson.

Peter Galatis Award
Brandon Beaumont, Aidan DeGregorio, Isaac McIlroy.

8th Grade Science
Steven Gublo, Enkang Lin, Olivia Stephani.

8th Grade Math
Jacey Carl, Eleanor Clarkson, Andrea Heskell, Brittany Luke, Maggie Rhoads, Trevor Sager, Samuel Thorsland.

8th Grade Algebra
Collin Gaylord, Enkang Lin, Elaine Majors, Sarah Swinnerton, Josiah Wysocki.

8th Grade Science
Steven Gublo, Enkang Lin, Olivia Stephani.

Mr. Michel’s Physical Education Class
Zachary Burrows, Aidan DeGregorio, Alexandria LaMoreaux, Tyler LeRoux, Jessica Peters, Olivia Stephani.

Mrs. Suddaby’s Physical Education Class
Brandon Beaumont, Madison Cary, Ellie Clarkson, Kelsey Kernan, Gabe Planty, Adrienna Solomon, Maddie Suddaby, Josiah Wysocki.

Home and Careers
Brandon Beaumont, Scott Brubaker, Haley Dean, Collin Gaylord, Mason Neira, Gabe Planty, Sam Smith, Olivia Stephani, Sarah Swinnerton.

8th Grade History
Aidan DeGregorio, Travis Hill, Mason Neira, Peter Sandritter, Sarah Swinnerton.

8th Grade ELA
David Armstrong, Mason Neira, Peter Sandritter, Olivia Stephani, Hannah Warrick.

Triple C Award
Scott Brubaker, Maggie Rhoads.

Comptroller Award
Amber Updike

8th Grade Spanish
Scott Brubaker, Aidan DiGregorio, Travis Hill, Sarah Swinnerton.

O-M distributes its annual awards

Special to The Odessa File

ODESSA, June 8, 2016 -- Odessa-Montour High School distributed honors at its annual Academic Awards Program Monday at the school.

They were as follows:

WELLS COLLEGE 21ST CENTURY LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Alyssa Crout

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Earth Science -- Alyssa Lindsley
Living Environment -- Syria Tague
Chemistry -- Cameron Bryington
Ace Biology -- April Dunn

HONOR ROLL
This award is presented to students who have been on the Honor Roll (84.5 average) the first five marking periods this school year.

Freshmen: Olivia Grover, Briana Lockwood, Emma Lodge, Madison Randall, Tori Reese, Donald Roberts, Hannah Rosier, Alexis Saunders

Sophomores: Cameron Adams, Heidi Casselberry, LeNay Duet, Kayla Dundas, Curtis Harris, Elisha House, Alyssa Lindsley, Shaunalynn Maddox, Nakiaha Robinson, Anna Ross, Bronwyn Stermer, William Tague, Meagan Terry

Juniors: Paxtyn Brown, Alyssa Crout, Kyle Frasier, Andrew Fudala, Nicholas Sgrecci

Seniors: Bridgett Barrett, McKenna Carberry, Abigail Chapman, Tyler Clark, Jacob Edger, Ashton Furney, Joel Kelly, Erica Lockwood, Craig Starkweather

CONNIE TORPY JONES MEMORIAL AWARD -- Rosemary Peckham

SPANISH AWARDS
Spanish II Achievement Awards -- Kennedey Heichel, Kacie Wood
Spanish III Achievement Awards -- Cheyenne Barrett and Colin Marsh
Spanish IV Achievement Award -- Emelia Paulisczak
ACE Spanish Achievement Award -- Rosemary Peckham

NYS OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Mechel Wead

USMC Scholastic Excellence Award - Mechel Wead

TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Certificate of Excellence in Technology - Tyler Clark, Ashton Furney and Jimito Williams

Physical Education and Health Awards-
Grade 9 Physical Education Awards - McKenzie Barrett and Andrew Hartford
Grade 10 Physical Education Awards - Hailey Perraut and Andrew Ink
Grade 11 Physical Education Awards - Alyssa Crout and Tyler Bump

Senior High Health Excellence Award
Excellence in Senior High Health award - Olivia Scata

PHYSICAL EDUCATION BABE RUTH AWARDS -- Ashley Kot and Tyler Clark

ELMIRA COLLEGE KEY AWARD -- Emelia Paulisczak and Nicholas Sgrecci

NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL TRIPLE C AWARD -- Paxtyn Brown and Nicholas Sgrecci

MATH DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Algebra -- Brandon Bordonaro
Geometry -- Andrew Ink
Trigonometry -- Ethan Fellwock
4 Year Math Awards -- Tyler Clark, Ethan Fellwock, Ashton Furney, Sage Garrison, Ashley Kot, Madison Lodge, Rosemary Peckham and Nicholas Sgrecci
5 Year Math Awards -- Logan Barrett, Olivia Scata and James Terry

BAUSCH AND LOMB HONORARY SCIENCE AWARD -- Emelia Paulisczak

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER FREDRICK DOUGLAS AND SUSAN B.ANTHONY AWARD - Paxtyn Brown

BOYS STATE AWARDS -- Ethan Fellwock, Andrew Fudala and Nicholas Sgrecci

ENGLISH AWARDS
English 9 Award -- Kennedey Heichel
English 10 Award -- Gillian Clark
English 11 Academic Excellence Award -- Emelia Paulisczak
English 12 Academic Excellence Award -- Brandon Voorhees
ACE English Academic Award -- Starr Cole

HISTORY DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Excellence in Government -- Luke Eberhardt
Excellence in Economics -- Luke Eberhardt
ACE U.S. History -- Emelia Paulisczak
ACE Economics -- Tyler Clark
Ace Government -- Logan Barrett
Joseph Lemak Global Studies Award -- Emelia Paulisczak
Edward Banfi U. S. History Award -- Mechel Wead

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER GEORGE EASTMAN LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Collin Povoski

CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE AWARDS - HIGHEST AVERAGE FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR
Grade 9 -- Kennedey Heichel
Grade 10 -- Carly Smith
Grade 11 -- Emelia Paulisczak

PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD
9th Grade -- Mckenzie Barrett, Noah Brewster, Emily Holton, Dezirae Minnier, John Niedermaier and Casey Underdown
10th Grade -- Cameron Adams, Taylor Alton, Cheyenne Barrett, Kayla Dundas, Curtis Harris, Almon McCarty, Daniel Minnier, Jonathan Myers and Carly Smith
11th Grade -- Madison Morse, Emelia Paulisczak
12th Grade -- Logan Barrett, Starr Cole, Angeleah Holton, Abelgayle Parker and Mechel Wead

HIGH HONOR ROLL
This award is presented to students who have been on the High Honor Roll (89.5 average) the first five marking period this school year.

Freshmen: Mckenzie Barrett, Noah Brewster, Hannah Bruno, Tyler Carson, Hunter Daugherty, Hailey Ferguson, Kennedey Heichel, Jacy Knapp, McKennah Lott, Maria Scata, Syria Tague, Casey Underdown, Jacqulyn Vincent, Kacie Wood

Sophomores: Cheyennne Barrett, Gillian Clark, Erin Kleist, Hailey Perraut, Jaylin Rumsey, Carly Smith

Juniors: Cameron Bryington, Sage Garrison, Madison Morse, Emelia Paulisczak, Mitchell Scata, Andrew Stevenson, Britney Visscher

Seniors: Logan Barrett, Steven Bennett, Starr Cole, Danielle Fuschilo, Angeleah Holton, Rosemary Peckham, Olivia Scata, Brandon Voorhees, Me’chel Wead.

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY COMPUTING MEDAL -- Paxtyn Brown and Nicholas Sgrecci

ROCHESTER INSTITUTE INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY AWARD -- Emelia Paulisczak and Collin Povoski

CLARKSON UNIV. HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Alex Grady

CLARKSON UNIV. HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP AWARD -- Emelia Paulisczak

RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE WOMEN OF INFLUENCE AWARD -- Dasia Herrmann and Britney Visscher

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER XEROX AWARD -- Nicholas Sgrecci
PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE (Must have 90 average and College Entrance Exam Scores at or above the 85th Percentile) -- Logan Barrett

FOUR-YEAR HONORS
(Seniors who have a 3-5/6 year average of 85 or above):
Logan Barrett, Steven Bennett, Gabrielle Cain, Lovona Carrigan, Abigail Chapman, Tyler Clark, Starr Cole, Audreanna Crout, April Dunn, Luke Eberhardt, Angeleah Holton, Joel Kelly, Ashley Kot, Madison Lodge, Rosemary Peckham, Victoria Pries, Emma Raymond, Olivia Scata, James Terry, Brandon Voorhees, Mechel Wead and James Williams

WGHS distributes its annual awards

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, June 2, 2016 -- Watkins Glen High School distributed honors at its annual Awards Assembly Wednesday at the school.

They were as follows:

American Red Cross Blood Bank: Thank you to Mrs. Chedzoy, Mr. Davidowsky and our Student Council for running the program for us this year. Congratulations to our students and our staff for donating 50 units of blood with 28 first-time donors this year.

Student Council Leadership Scholarships: Bernadette Osborne, Portia Wells, and Lucas Wickham

Rotary Students of the Month: September - Megan Chilson; October - Cheyenne Stansfield; November - Allison Teed; December - Maggie Bond; January - Brenen Murphy; February - Ian Chedzoy; March - Portia Wells; April - Brooke Shaffer; May - Bernadette Osborne; June - James St. Julien

Interact Service Awards:
Recognition for Years of Service: Emma Congdon, De’naja Blanchard and Bernadette Osborne

TIES Volunteer Awards: Liza Carnes, Courtney Irwin, Ian Chedzoy, Brenen Murphy and James St. Julien

U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Awards:

Athlete: Margaret Bond and Ian Chedzoy
Scholastic Excellence Award: Claire McManus
Semper Fidelis Award: Portia Wells

U.S. Army National Scholar Athlete: Margaret Bond and Ian Chedzoy

Hope for Lyme: Cheyenne Stansfield

UFCW Local One Benefit Funds’ Education Award: Cody Austic

Technology Awards Certificates: Megan Chilson, Jacob Slater, Thomas Schmitt, Tyler Jelenevsky, and Brenen Murphy

Varsity Academic Marathon: Margaret Bond, Ian Chedzoy, Megan Chilson, Megan Hoy, Mackenzie Kennedy, Claire McManus, Brenen Murphy, Bernadette Osborne, Ashley Palmer, Brandon Pike, Olivia Rodriguez, Madeleine Ross, Cheyenne Stansfield, Portia Wells, and Lucas Wickham

Bausch & Lomb Science Honorary Award: Ruthe Gardner

Fredrick Douglas & Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences & Humanities: Brienna Solomon

George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Alex Gibson

Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology: Rong Hong Lin

Elmira College Key Award: Cambria Weeden and Payton Watson

Wells College 21st Century Leadership Award: Jacob Carocci

Clarkson University Leadership Award: Alexander Gibson

Rochester Institute of Technology Junior Awards:
Innovation & Creativity Award: Rong Hong Lin

Alfred University Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering Award for Academic Excellence: Alexander Gibson

Top Ten Recognition: Margaret Bond, Claire McManus, Cheyenne Stansfield, Portia Wells, Brandon Pike, Lucas Wickham, Megan Hoy, Brenen Murphy, Megan Chilson and Emma Allington

Boy’s State Recognition Awards: Ryan Pruitt (Sponsor-Watkins Glen Fire Department) and Dylan Platon (Sponsor-Watkins Glen American Legion)

Math Recognition Awards:
Algebra Regents Award: Nathaniel Rose
Geometry Regents Award: Kaitlyn Valla
Algebra II Regents Award: Cheyenne Stansfield

Ruth Warner Math Awards: Brienna Solomon and Taylor Kelly

Francis W. Blake Sportsmanship Awards: Margaret Bond and Brenen Murphy

Barb Hughey Physical Education Award: Bernadette Osborne and Brenen Murphy

Water Safety Award: Megan Hoy

Senecas Football Award: Ian Chedzoy

Track & Field Award: Brandon Pike

Athletic Service Award: Nateah Cornish

Dr. Arthur J. Jackson Award: Margaret Bond and Ian Chedzoy

Coach Joseph J. Lemak, Sr. Award: Katherine Meehan and Brandon Gould

T.J. O’Rourke Award: Brandon Pike

James Angelo, Sr. Basketball Award: Parker Pangallo

Chemistry Regents Award: Phebe Wickham and Jacob Carocci

Gerald Loughlin Biology Regents Award (Living Environment): Jared Sandritter

Physics Regents Award: James St. Julien and Lucas Wickham

Earth Science Regents Award: Alyssa Arcangeli and Aiden DeBolt 

AP Achievement Award: Brandon Pike

English Regents Award: Portia Wells, Maggie Bond, Cheyenne Stansfield, and Brandon Pike

Dugo-Bahns U.S. History Regents Award: Margaret Bond, Cheyenne Stansfield and Ian Chedzoy

Bahns-Dugo Global History Regents Award: Cambria Weeden

Melissa B. Wilson Basketball Award: Katherine Meehan

National Honor Society Awards:
NHS Presidential Award: Portia Wells
NHS Service Award: Cheyenne Stansfield
NHS Leadership Award: Bernadette Osborne
NHS Scholarship Award: Margaret Bond
NHS Character Award: Brenen Murphy

Students running for Student Council Officers gave their electoral speeches during the school day on June 2nd, with elections set for June 3.

Speeches were given by:
Courtney Irwin for President
Abigail Miller, Aiden DeBolt for Vice President (VP candidate with lowest vote total was to get the Treasurer’s position)
Alexis Bingham for Secretary

YEARBOOK DEDICATION: Zack Brown

Open house, student art show set at AMS

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 31 -- Arnot Medical Services (AMS) will welcome members of the community to an open house and art show from 5:00-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7 at AMS Watkins Glen, 104 S. Porter St.

The event is an opportunity to meet the office’s staff and providers, and to enjoy an installation of original art work by students of the Watkins Glen Central School District. Light refreshments will be provided.

Debating Clean Energy ... but in this case, from a distance

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, May 29 -- It was Debate Day recently at Watkins Glen High School -- Debate Day, Distance Learning style.

The school's Orator's Guild, under the guidance of teacher Travis Durfee, went up against a team from Addison High School from the comfort of a WGHS classroom, using the district's learning technology -- a system similar to Skype, but of higher quality -- through GST BOCES. It is a rapidly developing technology, and one that will likely see increasing use in future debates.

Each debate squad -- one in a room in Watkins Glen, and one in Addison -- utilized a screeen and a high-resolution video camera. Three other schools -- from Texas, Taiwan and the Czech Republic -- are involved in the program, but on this day Watkins debated only Addison.

"My kids really seem to like this idea," said Durfee of his students. "We were able to designate roles, with a few students handling the constructive speech, others preparing for cross examination, and still others preparing for the rebuttal and closing statement. Many of the students had not debated outside of the comfort of our English classroom before, so this was a good way to break the ice."

The debate theme was Global Alternative Energy, or what was dubbed a "Clean Energy Debate," one of many that organizers hope to conduct. "Our goal," said Rene Carver, distance learning coordinator at GST BOCES, in an email to participants before the debate, "is to promote discussion and education about the Global Climate Disruption impact of our energy source choices. For the debate, one school will be assigned the affirmative and the other school will be assigned the negative on the following proposal:

"Proposed: 'The world can and must move to solely clean, non-nuclear, renewable energy sources by 2030.'"

According to the plan presented by Carver, both sides in the program's debates have 15 minutes to present "research-based arguments," then jointly use 15 minutes to "ask each other questions about their research and respective positions." That is followed by 10-minute "rebuttal" speeches by each side, and then a joint, "convivial" 10-minute closing with "appreciative remarks from both sides."

The goal, Carver said, is "for students to educate themselves as much as possible" about such things as energy consumption levels, "current and projected"; the environmental impact of various energy sources such as solar, tidal, wind, coal, nuclear, gas, oil and hydropower; and "energy storage potential."

No winner was crowned on this debate day, said Durfee, "but it was a very strong showing from the Watkins Glen Orator's Guild." Added Carver: "The level of 'winning' is determined by the level of learning about required action to ensure a viable future."

Participants from Watkins Glen included freshmen Kishan Patel, Joe Chedzoy, H. Nathaniel Rose, Kathryn Losey and Claudia Parker; sophomores Daniel Paradiso, Clara Chedzoy, Emmie Bond and Sean Holland; juniors Tanner Ryan and Simon Wigmore; and senior Brandon Pike.

A dozen students from 11th and 12th grade classes at Addison High School participated, as well, from environmental science classes.

Students from Watkins Glen, Durfee said, "prepared during lunches and after school in addition to researching at home." The Watkins Glen Orators Guild is a club in its first year at WGHS.

Said organizer Carver afterward:

"It is heartening to see the motivation of students as they prepared themselves for a lengthy presentation of their assigned point of view and their research and even more heartening to see how carefully and thoughtfully the debate structure had them focused on both understanding the opposing point of view and being aware of potential argument failures.  Those skills are at least as essential as ever, and likely even more with the increased media consumption possible."

Said Watkins Glen participant Tanner Ryan, president of the Watkins Glen Orators Guild:

"Today's debate was a great experience. It was nice to watch some of my peers move out of their comfort zones, and take on roles they didn't originally plan on. I think it opened doors for those who might have been hesitant before, and I hope that the exposure will lead to another successful debate season next year." 

Added Durfee, a 9th grade English teacher at WGHS and the Orators Guild advisor:

“One of the more exciting developments in public education over the past few years has been a shift away from ineffective standardized tests, which present contrived situations to evaluate student learning. The move toward more authentic experiences and project-based learning as the means for evaluating student learning is good practice and common sense. The collaborative nature of debate gives our students the opportunity to synthesize the many critical thinking skills we strive to teach in the classroom and apply those skills in a live situation.”

The debate process encountered "a few glitches," said Durfee, "but overall we conducted about 80 minutes of debate and conversation with very little interruption. CNN could learn a thing or two from Rene and the folks at GST BOCES."

Added Deborah Lee, an Addison science teacher who oversaw her school's debate team: "I would definitely be interested in doing this again next year. Now I have a much better idea of what to expect and how to prepare my students for something like this. ... I think that learning debate skills is important for students because not only does it promote the development of good research skills, but also forces them to examine all sides of an issue and learn to defend what they are claiming with evidence. These are life skills and will help them in the future."

Selfies are a part of any modern-day prom.

Prom Night for Watkins Glen

HECTOR, May 14, 2016 -- It was Prom Night Saturday for Watkins Glen High School students who gathered for the occasion at Logan Ridge after dining at area restaurants.

Lavish gowns, sharp tuxedos, camaraderie and plenty of music marked the occasion, caught in various photographs here.

Photo at right: William Yeater and Mia Manzer. Both recently had key roles in the WGHS play "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang."

Scenes from the Prom:

The sunset was colorful for Prom-goers.

Bryce Elliott and Nadia Simpson at the Odessa-Montour Prom at the WGI Media Center.

Prom Night for O-M at WGI

ODESSA, May 6 -- They gathered in gowns, tuxes and other finery for an evening of food, fun, dancing and camaraderie Friday night.

It was the annual Odessa-Montour High School prom, held again at the Watkins Glen International racetrack Media Center.

The students, most of whom had been out to area restaurants before making their way to the track, checked in on the Media Center's first floor before riding the elevator to the second floor, site of a lounge and then the ballroom, a multi-purpose room bathed in soft, colorful lighting.

There, they sat at tables in small groups and danced as couples or in large groups, and enjoyed the night that has long stood as a benchmark in the high school experience.

Photo in text: Nick Sgrecci with Olivia Grover.

Other photos from the evening:

Hansen arrested again at WG

Handcuffed at school tennis match; trespass charged

WATKINS GLEN, May 4 -- Kristina Hansen, already facing a misdemeanor trespass charge following her arrest March 21 while trying to attend a public Watkins Glen School Board meeting, was removed by a Village Police officer in handcuffs Wednesday afternoon while she was watching a Watkins Glen High School tennis match.

Hansen, a district resident, was approached by School Athletic Manager Erich Kramer and Officer J. Walrath as Hansen was seated on bleachers watching the match between the Watkins Glen and Lansing varsity tennis teams.

Following a brief, low-keyed exchange between Kramer and Hansen and then Walrath and Hansen, the officer raised his voice to tell her: "You're not supposed to be here. You've been told multiple times that you're not supposed to be here."

Hansen had in fact been banned by Superintendent Tom Phillips from the school campus without his written authorization following a March 11 incident in which Hansen tried to attend a staff meeting at the school. She maintains she had a right to be there since a quorum of School Board members were attending. A violation-level trespass charge was filed when she was arrested while trying to attend the Board meeting 10 days later. That charge was later dismissed in Village Court, but a misdemeanor-level trespass charge was filed for the same March 21 incident on April 28. She was arraigned that day and a not-guilty plea was entered for her by her attorney, Ray Schlather of Ithaca. A motion by Schlather to dismiss the charge is pending before the court.

Amid all of that, Hansen filed a Notice of Claim announcing a lawsuit handled for her by Schlather's firm and filed against the village, Village Police, the two March 21 arresting officers, the school district, Phillips and School Board President Kelly McCarthy. It charged, among other things, illegal arrest. The suit claims nobody can be prevented from attending a public School Board session without a court order. Hansen is also claiming outside the suit that there was "no basis" for the Phillips ban order and that "it needs to be challenged."

Hansen said before Wednesday's arrest that she was on hand with her daughter Hannah to watch the tennis team, for which Hannah played last year. Hansen said she wants her daughter to join the team again next year. It is not clear whether the daughter was still present when the officer arrived.

When Kramer first saw Hansen there Wednesday, he contacted the superintendent, and Officer Walrath soon arrived, meeting with Kramer and High School Principal Kai D'Alleva on the dirt path leading to the tennis courts. After Walrath approached Hansen and told her she had repeatedly been warned by school officials to stay off of school property, she responded that they "don't make laws."

"The bottom line," said Walrath, is "you're trespassing." And he had her stand and turn to be handcuffed, and led her away. She was transported to police headquarters, processed and released. A spokesman said the new trespass charge is a misdemeanor-level one.

Said an observer at the tennis courts: "I'm upset with everybody about this. I don't mind her protesting" Phillips' banning move, "but she shouldn't have picked a place like this to get arrested -- not in front of all of these kids. What does that say to them?

"And if they had to arrest her, they could have waited until she was leaving."

Photo in text: Hansen is handcuffed by Village Police Officer J. Walrath.

WGHS honors its top 10%

WATKINS GLEN, May 3 -- The top 10 percent of students in each grade at Watkins Glen High School were honored Monday night in a ceremony at the school.

Grades included an average from the first three of four marking periods in the 2015-16 school year, not from the entire school year.

Those honored included:

9th Grade: Joseph Chedzoy, Kathleen Clifford, Jonathan Lokken, Phoebe Majors, Dylan Markley, H. Nathaniel Rose, Emilee Stephani, Kai Sutterby, Casen Weeden and Annika Wickham.

10th Grade: Maria Chedzoy, Gabriella Decker, Mariah Gonzalez, Meghan Hayes, Megan Hazlitt, Torie Hill, Daniel Paradiso, Tanner Ryan, Julian Thornton, Trevor Thurston and Kaitlyn Valla.

11th Grade: Alyssa Arcangeli, Jacob Carocci, Ruthe Gardner, Sara Gardner, Alexander Gibson, Rong Hang Lin, Jacob Lokken, Connor Seeley-Ion, Brienna Solomon and Cambria Weeden.

12th Grade: Margaret Bond, Megan Chilson, Claire McManus, Brandon Pike, Thomas Schmitt, Brooke Shaffer, Cheyenne Stansfield, Portia Wells and Lucas Wickham.

Hansen not-guilty plea entered as Schlather moves to dismiss

Village Justice Miller wants prosecution response by May 19; will rule then

WATKINS GLEN, April 28 -- Kristina Hansen was arraigned Thursday in Village Court on a second trespass charge lodged against her following her attempt to attend a March 21 Watkins Glen School Board meeting. Her attorney, Ray Schlather, entered a plea of not guilty for her, and she was released on her own recognizance -- with a motion for dismissal hanging in the air, filed by Schlather and awaiting a prosecution response.

Village Justice Connie Fern Miller did not outrightly agree with dismissal this time, as she had on a previous trespass charge against Hansen that was of the violation variety. This one, involving the powers of school officials, is a misdemeanor.

Miller said she would wait to rule on the motion -- which calls for dismissal for both "facial and legal insufficiency" and cites case law and open meetings law provisions that Schlather says trump the trespass charge -- until the prosecution can respond, as long as it does so within 20 days. The judge indicated a ruling was coming before or at a court session on May 19, with or without attorneys present -- meaning arguments could be provided either orally before Miller, or beforehand in writing.

Asked afterward if he was disappointed with the delay, Schlather said no -- that presenting a motion at arraignment was an unusual move, and one the judge wanted the prosecution to have time to absorb and respond to.

In releasing Hansen on her own recognizance, Miller noted that there was no bail "since you have appeared here twice voluntarily with your attorney." At that first appearance, on April 7, Miller had dismissed the trespass violation charge without prejudice, meaning a new charge could be filed that appeared more pertinent to the facts of the case.

Schlather said after the arraignment that he had not received the latest accusatory instrument -- with a supporting deposition of Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips -- until Thursday, and that having now seen it believes "this case should not have resulted in re-arrest. The School Board or Superintendent can prevent" certain actions by people on the school campus, "but have no right" to prevent members of the public from attending public meetings such as the March 21 School Board session.

If a person were admitted to such a meeting and was "disruptive, then certainly there are things (school officials) can do," said Schlather. "But the Court of Appeals has spoken clearly on this issue. It's not a lawful order."

Phillips issued a ruling that Hansen needed his written permission to be on campus following an attempt by Hansen to attend a staff meeting at the school on March 11 attended by, in addition to faculty and staff, four members of the School Board. She was met at the outer door by a gesticulating Phillips telling her she had to leave, but she refused, saying later she was reacting to what she deemed as his bullying attitude. She was ultimately escorted from the entrance vestibule by two police officers, but not charged.

Ten days later, emboldened by an opinion from the State Committee on Open Government's executive director, Robert J. Freeman, saying nobody could be prevented from attending a public School Board session without a court order, Hansen approached a Watkins Glen School Board meeting, only to be met on the sidewalk by Phillips, who ordered her to leave school grounds. Standing nearby were two Watkins Glen village police officers who arrested and handcuffed her when she tried to argue her right to be there.

Lawsuits against the school district, Phillips, Board president Kelly McCarthy, the village, its police department and the arresting officers were subsequently announced through Notices of Claim prepared by Schlather's firm on behalf of Hansen. Unspecified monetary awards will be sought -- which reportedly would be covered by insurance.

But Phillips, in concert with police and the Special Prosecutor in the case, Seneca County District Attorney Barry Porsche, soon filed the new charge against Hansen, leading to Thursday's arraignment. Porsche left court immediately after Thursday's session, without comment.

Hansen, following her court appearance, was transported to the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office by Schlather, where they met with police officers for fingerprinting as part of the arrest procedure effected with her voluntary appearance at the Municipal Building, site of the courtroom. She had been ordered to report for arrest in an email sent to her by Police Chief Tom Struble a week and a half ago.

Schlather, speaking both after the arraignment and after the fingerprinting, remained optimistic about the case, saying he will come to Watkins Glen again from his Ithaca office "if necessary" for further court proceedings, "but might not have to" -- if Justice Miller were to dismiss the charge based on written arguments.

If she were to do that, he said, "this is over." But another appearance in court depends not only on her ruling, but on "what they (the prosecution) file" (in response to his motion), whether they prefer oral arguments, "and if I come up with something unusual, different ..."

He let the thought hang there.

Photos in text: Attorney Ray Schlather talks to the media after the arraignment; a sign in the Municipal Building points the way to the courtroom; and Hansen, second from right, leaves the Schuyler County Sheriff's office with Schlather (left) and friends after she was fingerprinted there following arraignment in the Municipal Building.

Re-arrest looms for Hansen

Notices of claim delivered to school district, village, police department

WATKINS GLEN, April 19 -- The woman arrested on March 21 for attempting to attend a Watkins Glen School Board meeting is scheduled to be re-arrested and arraigned in Village Court on Thursday, April 28.

Meanwhile, Notices of Claim from the woman's attorneys leveling various accusations have been sent by certified mail to the Village of Watkins Glen and the Watkins Glen School District as the first step in lawsuits against those entities and specific individuals.

Kristina Hansen, arrested on a trespass charge that was later dismissed by Village Justice Connie Fern Miller, was notified Monday by Village Police Chief Tom Struble of the pending re-arrest in an e-mail requesting her to submit to authority at 3 p.m. on April 21 -- later changed to April 28 at the request of her attorney, Ray Schlather of Ithaca, who could not attend on the 21st.

The charge pending against her is once again Criminal Trespass -- but this time at the Class B Misdemeanor level instead of the previous Violation. As such, it can bring a higher fine and up to a year in jail, said Struble, "though jail time is rare and usually reserved for repeat offenders." Ultimately, he added, it's up to the judge to determine the movement of the case -- from taking a plea and setting a trial date down to "dismissing it on the spot, but I hope she doesn't."

The dismissal by the judge on April 7 had come "without prejudice," which Schlather had explained means the Special Prosecutor in the case, Seneca County District Attorney Barry Porsche, could conceivably "refile" if he found "proper allegations." Porsche was assigned the case by Schuyler County Judge Dennis Morris, Schlather explained at the time, because Schuyler County DA Joe Fazzary had been excused due to a conflict of interest.

The new charge, "found in a different section of Criminal Trespass Law," said Struble, spells out -- where the initial charge did not -- that "a school official can tell a person not to be on school property." He and Porsche arrived at the decision to file the new charge, with the school district once again the complainant.

He said he couldn't comment on the Notices of Claim submitted to his department and the village Monday (see section below), but did say "the police department has a job to do. But the bottom line is this: the situation has to be resolved. It's unfortunate that she decided to sue, but it's her choice and her right. It's all unfortunate, is all I can say."

As for the pending arrest, the chief said any failure by a defendant to appear in such a situation results in "alternative action" by police to ensure his or her presence -- but that he spoke with Attorney Schlather "in person and by e-mail, and he said there is no problem in his client appearing" for arrest and arraignment on April 28. When she comes in, he explained, prints will be taken and paperwork filled out before she goes to court, which is on the second floor of Village Hall, the same building housing the police department.

"No handcuffs this time?" he was asked, a reference to the arrest technique employed against Hansen on March 21.

Not if she comes in voluntarily, he answered, adding in a reference to that March 21 arrest: "Our guys had to do what they had to do" to remove Hansen from school property that day, even though she tried to argue that she had a right to attend a public meeting under the law.

"The whole thing is an unfortunate situation," the chief said. "It's real frustrating."

Meanwhile, Struble -- in his e-mail to Hansen on Monday -- cautioned that she should "not attempt to enter upon any Watkins Glen School District property until this situation is resolved."

Accordingly, she did not enter the school grounds for Monday evening's School Board meeting.

Notices of Claim

The Notices of Claim were being delivered by certified mail to the school district, the Village of Watkins Glen and its Police Department -- with the village affirming that a copy was received there Monday. The notices were issued by Schlather's law firm, Schlather, Stumbar, Parks & Salk of Ithaca against both the school district and the village as well as against School Superintendent Tom Phillips, School Board President Kelly McCarthy, the Village Police Department and arresting officers Isaac Marmor and Jamie Coleman.

Both the school and village notices state: "The nature of the claims is in tort for false arrest and unlawful imprisonment, abuse of process, malicious prosecution, trespass to person and battery. Further, the claims include all those that arise out of violations of claimant's (Hansen's) State and Federal constitutional rights, including, most centrally, her freedom of speech and freedom to assemble."

No monetary damages are mentioned yet -- except in the cases of Marmor and Coleman. "In addition to whatever full damages and costs that may be assessed against the other respondents," the Notice to the Village says, "claimant seeks nominal damages only in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) against Officers Marmor and Coleman personally because she is satisfied that although their actions were misguided and in ignorance of the law, at all times pertinent they acted in good faith at the direction of their superiors."

In the Notice of Claim against the School District, Phillips and McCarthy, the March 11 incident that ultimately led to the arrest 10 days later was outlined as follows:

"On March 11, 2016, claimant, as a law-abiding member of the public, attempted to attend an open meeting of officials and staff of the WGCSD in the auditorium of the WGCSD High School that was attended by a quorum of the members of the WGCSD BOE." This fact of a quorum appears central to the case, for a cover letter states that Hansen, "as a member of the public, has every right to be present at and to participate in every open meeting of the Watkins Glen Central School District Board of Education, its subcommittees and any other gathering where a quorum of the Board is present." Four of the seven School Board members were present that morning.

Phillips, the explanation of the March 11 incident continued, "unlawfully denied (Hansen) access to the meeting. Further, Phillips requested the Watkins Glen Village Police Department to forcibly escort claimant from the premises, which Village Police Officers did do. This request and removal was made and accomplished with the participation and approval of McCarthy, but without any formal BOE action."

McCarthy, however, has offered an account of that day from a different perspective with entirely different observations, among them that Hansen had no right to attend the meeting, which McCarthy said was closed to the public; that Hansen tried to enter the building without permission, and that she was disruptive in her refusal to leave and in an insistence to speak to McCarthy. (For more from McCarthy, see pertinent sections of a letter she wrote to the media here.)

The notice continued: "Later that same day, Phillips wrote claimant a letter which directed that: 'If you have a need to visit a school or a district office you must request permission from the Superintendent by stating the specifics of the need to come to the district, including time necessary to complete any business. Before coming to school, wait for the Superintendent to grant permission in writing. Written permission must be presented at the time of admittance to the building.' Again, this letter was written and delivered to claimant with the participation and approval of McCarthy, but without any formal BOE action.

"Claimant regularly attended open meetings, including BOE meetings, at WGCSD. Claimant confirmed with the New York State Committee on Open Government that the Superintendent's directive in no way pertained to her ability to attend open meetings at WGCSD. Claimant planned to keep attending WGCSD open meetings, as was her clear right under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and related New York State laws, rules and regulations. She so advised in writing McCarthy, the Watkins Glen Village Police Department and the WGCSD School Resource Officer, who in turn advised Phillips."

The arrest itself was outlined as follows:

"On Monday, March 21, 2016, claimant attempted to attend a WGCSD Board Meeting. While walking on the sidewalk that led to Watkins Glen High School, Phillips physically blocked claimant and advised her that she could not attend the meeting. When claimant expressed that she would not leave, Phillips -- with the consent, cooperation and approval of McCarthy -- had Watkins Glen Village Police Officers handcuff the claimant, take her into custody, and had her arrested and charged with Criminal Trespass, in violation of Section 140.05 of the NYS Penal Law.

"At all times pertinent herein, the respondents knew or should have known that Phillips' March 11th letter to claimant was illegal and unenforceable in the context of preventing claimant from attending an open public meeting of the BOE. Nevertheless, the respondents, despite lacking probable cause or other legal authority, maliciously commenced, caused to be commenced, and continued the criminal proceeding against claimant, all with intent to do harm to claimant without excuse or justification."

"On April 7, 2016," the notice added, "at (Hansen's) arraignment on the Criminal Trespass charge, the Village Court ... dismissed the charge because of legal and factual insufficiency."

*****

Now, in light of the new, enhanced trespass charge being leveled, the respondents have fired back in kind, using -- as Hansen has -- the court system.

The outcome? Who knows?

On the one hand, Hansen is facing a misdemeanor charge.

On the other -- on the lawsuit front -- there is talk of negotiations involving insurance company representatives, for municipal and school district administrators and officers are covered by insurance in such matters. Beyond that -- in case there is no out-of-court settlement -- the lawsuits could reportedly be combined as the matter moves to the New York Supreme Court for a possible hearing.

But that seems to be down the road.

As for now, it seems -- considering the rancor inherent in this case -- apt to quote Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan's general philosophical observation:

"I've led a school whose faculty and students examine and discuss and debate every aspect of our law and legal system. And what I've learned most is that no one has a monopoly on truth or wisdom. I've learned that we make progress by listening to each other, across every apparent political or ideological divide."

Photos in text:

From top: Kristina Hansen with her attorney, Ray Schlather, after her first trespass charge was dismissed; Police Chief Tom Struble at the recent Arc Grand Prix run; a vacant Village Police vehicle parked outside the School Board meeting on April 18; School Superintendent Tom Phillips at the April 18 Board meeting, and School Board President Kelly McCarthy at the same session.

Auxiliary offers health care scholarships

Special to The Odessa File

MONTOUR FALLS, April 6, 2016 -- The Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary is offering scholarships to students who plan to enter the health care field.

$1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school students who are residents of Schuyler County, and to hospital employees wishing to further their education in the health care field.

Applications may be found on-line at www.schuylerhospital.org, by clicking on the media release at the top right. Applications may also be picked up at high school guidance offices, and at the hospital’s Human Resources office -- located inside the main entrance of the hospital.

Applications must be postmarked by May 27.

For more information, email info@schuylerhospital.org, or contact Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary member Joan Argetsinger at (607) 535-6622 or Michelle Benjamin at (607) 210-1950.

Friends of Library choose ambassadors

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 5 -- To celebrate National Library Week (April 10-16, 2016) and National School Library Month, Friends of the Watkins Library (FOWL) have selected Dannie Brown and Sue Dugo as community ambassadors.

Maggie Field, Watkins Glen High School Library Media Specialist, has chosen sophomore Amanda Armstrong as school district ambassador.

National School Library Month and National Library Week are an annual celebration of the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians. All types of libraries -- school, public, academic and special -- participate.

FOWL is an organization which supports the Watkins Glen Public Library.

FOWL membership funds help provide programs for children, the Books Sandwiched In sessions, seasonal plants and flowers, computer classes, and financial support to unanticipated needs of the library.

When you see any of these ambassadors, says Field, ask them for information regarding membership in FOWL and how you can help in supporting the Watkins Glen public and school libraries.

The FOWL membership form can be found at the WGPL, the high school library, from Dannie, Sue or Amanda, and at the following website: http://www.watkinsglenlibrary.org/

Photos in text:

Top: School district Ambassador Amanda Armstrong. (Photos by Maggie Field)
Bottom: Community Ambassadors Dannie Brown (left) and Sue Dugo.

WGHS orators excel in competition

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, April 3, 2016 -- On Saturday, April 2 the Watkins Glen Orators Guild hosted a speech and debate competition in conjunction with the Ronald Reagan Great Communicator Debate Series. Throughout the morning several students competed in speech and debate events that were judged by teachers from Watkins Glen High School.

The debate topic, chosen by the Reagan Presidential Library, dealt with the U.S. presidential primaries. The specific resolution stated that “the United States primary system is an ineffective method for selecting the best possible candidates for president.” Students researched and prepared arguments to support and oppose the resolution.

Participating judges noted the contrast in tone between Saturday’s debates and the so-called debates of the presidential hopefuls in the Republican and Democratic parties.

“It was truly gratifying to observe the level of debate our students have achieved,” said Marie Fitzsimmons, a high school history teacher who served as a judge Saturday morning. “I was particularly impressed by the professionalism, reasoned thinking, and respect for opponents. These students are building so many skills while pursuing the art of debate.”

After three rounds of debate, first-place honors were awarded to WGHS Sophomore Tanner Ryan, also the president of the Orators Guild. Freshman Kishan Patel earned second place, and freshman H. Nathaniel Rose took third place.

Also performing Saturday were several students interested in improvisation. In the impromptu event, students selected a prompt and prepared a speech with limited preparation time. Students had two minutes to prepare a performance that could last up to three minutes.

Senior Portia Wells earned first-place honors. Second place went to freshman H. Nathaniel Rose, and freshman Ramel Fulcher earned third place.

The club, recently approved by the Watkins Glen School Board, was able to provide awards for the day’s top competitors with support of the Watkins Glen PTO.

The debaters qualified to compete in a regional competition on Long Island in May. Regional winners are flown to Simi Valley, CA to compete in the national competition in June.

“Through the Orators Guild students develop a wide variety of academic and life skills, from research to public speaking,” said Katherine Meierjurgen, a high school Spanish teacher who also judged the day’s events. “The students who participated in Saturday's event demonstrated an incredible wealth of such skills. I feel privileged to have been a part of this tremendous event!”

Watkins Glen High School previously sent students to Boston College in 2012 to participate in the Great Communicator Debate Series.

Photo in text: From left, Ramel Fulcher, Portia Wells, Kishan Patel, Tanner Ryan and H. Nathaniel Rose. (Photo provided)

NYS Lifeguard Exams set at O-M

Special to The Odessa File

TRUMANSBURG, April 2, 2016 -- The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced that statewide qualifying procedures for lifeguards will be held in the Finger Lakes Region on the following dates:

Friday, April 8, 2016 -- at Odessa-Montour High School at 5:30 p.m.
Friday, April 22, 2016 -- at Odessa-Montour High School at 5:30 p.m.

Odessa-Montour High School is located at 300 College Avenue, Odessa, NY.

The exam will begin at 5:30 p.m. sharp. Candidates are encouraged to arrive one hour prior to the exam to register and to practice their CPR skills.

All exams are open to new candidates as well as returning lifeguards. The qualifying procedures evaluate practical lifesaving skills and cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills. All items of the examination are evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

Candidates are required to bring their picture ID and their own pocket masks for the CPR portion of the exam.

Starting pay for lifeguards is $13.27 per hour.

Candidates must pre-register by either calling the Finger Lakes State Parks Regional Office at (607)387-7041, ext. 104 or by e-mail at Andrew.Chouinard@parks.ny.gov.

Arc of Schuyler offers $1,000 scholarship

Special to The Odessa File

WATKINS GLEN, March 31 -- The Arc of Schuyler is offering a $1,000 scholarship in honor of past board member Joanne S. Hayes. Seniors at Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour and Bradford Central Schools or who are Schuyler County residents are eligible to apply for the award.

The scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior continuing his or her education in special education, human services or a related clinical area such as nursing, psychology, speech pathology, or physical/occupational therapy, which will be used in a career providing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism.

The Arc of Schuyler has identified that there are serious workforce issues facing organizations providing supports to people with disabilities. This scholarship program, said an Arc press release, "focuses on informing students, parents, schools and the community at large that there are important and rewarding jobs and a variety of career opportunities working with and for people with disabilities."

Joanne S. Hayes was a past board member and president of The Arc of Schuyler, who lived in Odessa before her death in 1987. She was a strong advocate for career and employee training. The scholarship is made possible through local donations.

Eligible applicants must submit the following to their school guidance office or to The Arc of Schuyler’s Human Resources Office at 210 12th Street in Watkins Glen by May 20: Completed application, legible essay (no more than two double-spaced pages), two letters of reference, GPA, class rank, SAT score, transcript, and a photo of the applicant to be used in promotional materials.

Applications are available at the school guidance office and at www.arcofschuyler.org. For more information, call 607-535-6934.

Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips and Board President Kelly McCarthy at Monday's board meeting.

Blocked at the school door

Phillips critic arrested on way to School Board session

WATKINS GLEN, March 21, 2016 -- A School Board candidate who attends Board meetings regularly -- and has become a critic of Watkins Glen School Superintendent Tom Phillips -- was stopped on school grounds by Phillips on her way to a board meeting Monday evening and arrested on a trespass charge by Village Police awaiting her arrival.

Kristina Hansen -- the mother of a Watkins Glen High School student -- had been banned from school property by Phillips following a confrontation on March 11 when she tried to enter the school to attend a staff meeting at which Phillips was to outline the status of jobs under the coming budget.

Hansen said she had wanted to attend as a member of the Shared Decision Making Committee, a unit formed back in the superintendency of the late Donald Dryden, and as a member of the High School Building Leadership Team.

She was escorted from the school on that day by Village Police called when she declined an order by Phillips to leave -- declined, she said, because Phillips was "loud and aggressive" when a measure of civility might well have worked. "I would never submit to an angry bully," she later wrote. She was not charged in that incident, and says she thought that despite Phillips' subsequent order banning her from school buildings, it would not apply to a public School Board meeting.

In that order, relayed to Hansen by registered letter and to The Odessa File by Hansen, Phillips wrote: "If you have a need to visit a school or a district office you must request permission from the Superintendent by stating the specifics of the need to come to the district, including time necessary to complete any business. Before coming to school, wait for the Superintendent to grant permission in writing. Written permission must be present at the time of admittance to the building."

Hansen protested that directive on March 14 in a letter to School Board President Kelly McCarthy, saying Phillips' action and the directive violated the district board's Code of Conduct -- which calls for action in such a circumstance by a building principal or "his or her designee." Besides, she wrote, all she did was approach the building -- not try to sneak into the meeting or demand admittance. What she was guilty of, she said, was "listening to what I perceived to be an out of control administrator yelling and threatening me for no reason. Approaching an approved entrance to request admittance is not a reason for a verbal barrage of threats."

Besides, she added in her missive to McCarthy, "I would characterize the Superintendent's behavior as completely opposed to the code of conduct description of your stated goal: 'The district has a longstanding set of expectations for conduct on school property and at school functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, tolerance, honesty and integrity.' I too support these goals."

In another letter to McCarthy, dated Monday, Hansen said she wished to file a complaint with the School Board "concerning the unprofessional behavior" of the superintendent on March 11. "At no point did I demand admittance. In fact it was difficult to get a word in over his yelling," she wrote, adding: "I deserved a rational professional conversation." Later, she added this: "I respectfully request that Mr. Phillips be held accountable for his actions. His ongoing hostility towards me is unwarranted and unprofessional."

Before Hansen's arrest Monday, Phillips was seen watching through an office window for board-meeting arrivals, and went outside briefly to talk to two Village Police officers when they arrived. They said they were alerted to be there by the School Resource Officer, David Waite, a retired trooper attached to the Village Police Department. Then, when Hansen arrived, parking in the main lot and then walking toward the entrance to the Board meeting, Phillips went outside once more and confronted her, saying twice: "I'm ordering you to leave this campus immediately."

When Hansen protested that she was on her way to a public meeting and that admittance was permitted under State Education Law, the officers -- Isaac Marmor and Jamie Coleman -- interceded, placing her under arrest, handcuffing her and directing her to their car. When she hesitated, they cautioned her that she could also be charged with resisting arrest. She complied and was led to the car and transported away.

While she was being handcuffed, Hansen was observed by arriving School Board member Kristin Hazlitt, who commented loudly: "That seems a little uncalled for." Hazlitt was, minutes later, heard saying to Board President Kelly McCarthy before the meeting that "it's not like a safety issue. Why are we dragging people away in handcuffs? Answered McCarthy: "We don't know what they're going to do. We don't know."

Hansen has run for the School Board twice and is doing so again this year. "I'm looking forward to it," she says. She has tangled with the administration in the past, accusing the district of a Title IX violation in the balance of boys and girls sports. The complaint was validated by investigators, forcing the district to make some adjustments.

She was released by Village Police Monday after being taken to Village Hall and issued an appearance ticket for Village Court on April 7.

A text message to Phillips by The Odessa File asking for comment on the situation went unanswered.

Photos in text:

Top: Superintendent Tom Phillips stops Hansen upon her arrival at the school Monday. "I'm ordering you to leave this campus immediately," he told her twice. Hansen insisted she had a right to attend a public meeting, and was quickly arrested.
Middle: Kristina Hansen is led to the waiting police car.
Bottom: School Board member Kristin Hazlitt during the board session.

From left: The flying car, Maria and Scott Brubaker, Alexis Atchie, Conlin Wysocki and Phebe Wickham in an early Act One scene.

'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' ends weekend run at WGHS

WATKINS GLEN, March 20, 2016 -- The Watkins Glen High School spring musical, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” -- a show about family and a flying car -- was presented for the final time Sunday afternoon in the Watkins Glen High School Auditorium.

The family-friendly musical opened Friday night and was presented again Saturday night.

In all, over 20 students from 7th to 12th grades rehearsed beginning in January, immersing themselves in the early 1900s with music, choreography, costumes, and tons of early 20th century references.

The show was chock full of familiar songs fans could recognize from the movie, including “Toot Sweets,” ”Doll on a Music Box,” “Teamwork,” “Hushabye Mountain,” “Roses of Success,” and “Me Ol’ Bamboo.”

The cast was outstanding in all three of its performances, much to the delight of the appreciative audiences.

Michelle and Tim Benjamin of Montour Falls directed (it was their 12th show for Watkins Glen High School), with Sarah Matthews as Music Director.

Leads included Conlin Wysocki as inventor Caractacus Potts, with Maria and Scott Brubaker as his children, Jemima and Jeremy, and William Yeater as the Grandpa. Truly Scrumptious was played by Phebe Wickham.

The primary plot: Baron and Baroness Bomburst, played by Nathaniel Rose and French exchange student Marie Bucher, try to steal the flying car -- named Chitty Chitty Bang Bang for the noises its engine makes -- from the Potts family with the help of not-so-brilliant spies Boris and Goran, played by Dakota Cole and Chase Richtmyer.

Featured performers included Alexis Atchie as the Toymaker, Mia Manzer as The Childcatcher, and James St. Julien as Lord Scrumptious.

The pit band included Tom Bloodgood, Bernie Riley, Sam Riley and Andy Stevenson, under the direction of Matthews.

Choreography was by student Portia Wells and Co-Director Michelle Benjamin. Costume Director was Tammy Cole. Hair was by Shear Designs. The producer was Sam Brubaker, and the show was presented by the Watkins Glen High School Class of 2016.

Book, Music and Lyrics are by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The play was based on an MGM motion picture, and adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams and Ray Roderick. It was presented here in cooperation with Music Theatre International.

Cast List

Caractacus Potts ---- Conlin Wysocki
Truly Scrumptious -- Phebe Wickham
Grandpa Potts ------- William Yeater
Jeremy Potts --------- Scott Brubaker
Jemima Potts -------- Maria Brubaker
Baron Bomburst ---- Nathaniel Rose
Baroness Bomburst--Marie Bucher
Boris ------------------ Dakota Cole
Goran ----------------- Chase Richtmyer
Childcatcher --------- Mia Manzer
Toymaker/Coggins --Alexis Atchie

Ensemble:

Elliott Holland, Aislinn Klemann, Olivia Lattin, Emily Manzer, Alix Mathews, Jack Muir, Walker Richtmyer, James St. Julien, Joelle Slater, Cheyenne Stansfield, Destiny Weber

Photos in text:

Top: Truly Scrumptious (Phebe Wickham) and Caractacus Potts (Conlin Wysocki), posing as dolls, dance in a scene leading to the play's climax. (Photo by Doug Yeater)
Second: Marie Bucher and Nathaniel Rose, the Baron and Baroness Bomburst. (Photo by Doug Yeater)
Third: Truly (Phebe Wickham) in a tender moment with the Potts children (Maria and Scott Brubaker). (Photo by Doug Yeater)
Bottom: Co-director Tim Benjamin carries a prop telephone in the hallway behind the stage during the final performance.

(Uncredited photos are by Charlie Haeffner)

Olivia Lattin, left, and Destiny Weber effect a dance move in the hallway behind the stage during a break in their on-stage performances Sunday.

Left: James St. Julien backstage in his Lord Scrumptious garb. Right: The Child Catcher is caught near the play's end. (Photo by Doug Yeater)

Left: Exchange student/actress Marie Bucher with Costume Director Tammy Cole. Right: Music Director Sarah Matthews during Sunday's performance.

Fun Fair attendants gather around Caractacus Potts (Conlin Wysocki, right) and his automatic hair-cutting machine. (Photo by Doug Yeater)

And on Saturday night:

From left: Dakota Cole, Alexis Atchie and Chase Richtmyer on stage for the final song.

Truly Scrumptious (Phebe Wickham) sings a song while on a picnic.

Joelle Slater, left, and Aislinn Klemann during a comedy skit in Act One.

James St. Julien as Lord Scrumptious (left) deals with Caractacus Potts.

Scott and Maria Brubaker flank William Yeater (Grandpa) during musical number.

Choregrapher Portia Wells (with microphone) praises directors Tim and Michelle Benjamin, left, after the play while senior advisor and play producer Sam Brubaker observes.

Caractacus Potts and Truly Scrumptious express concern in the flying car.

Dakota Cole as Boris hides under the car known as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Left: Marie Bucher as Baroness Bomburst, with the Baron (Nathaniel Rose) in the background. Right: Cheyenne Stansfield has several roles.

A dance routine with a number of performers during Act One.

Left: Alexis Atchie interacts with children in Act Two, in a scene shot from the stage wings. Right: Mia Manzer backstage in makeup for the role of The Childcatcher.

Left: Conlin Wysocki, center, sings a song with Maria and Scott Brubaker. Right: Olivia Lattin in one of her several ensemble roles.

Left: Chase Richtmyer as the spy named Goran. Right: Emily Manzer (left, as Miss Phillips) with Aislinn Klemann and Conlin Wysocki.

And Friday night:

The Potts children and Truly Scrumptious climb into the car known as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang while inventor Caractacus Potts starts the engine by cranking it.